More than one in three Atlantic Canadians are skipping meals because they can’t afford groceries.
A recent study by The Salvation Army found that 37 per cent of people in Atlantic Canada have skipped or reduced meals because grocery costs are too high.
This is an increase of 13 percentage points since 2025.
The report also found 38 per cent of Atlantic Canadians would require financial assistance within the first week if a natural disaster or other major emergency forced them from their homes, compared with 28 per cent nationally.
“It’s deeply concerning that more than one in three Atlantic Canadians are skipping meals or eating less because they can’t afford groceries,” Wendy Woodland, divisional secretary for public relations with The Salvation Army’s Atlantic Division, said in a statement.
“That’s a significant increase in just one year, and it shows how difficult it’s becoming for individuals and families to keep food on the table.”
Food affordability becoming a bigger concern
The Salvation Army’s 2026 Canadian Poverty and Socioeconomic Analysis surveyed more than 1,500 Canadians about poverty, affordability, financial security and other socioeconomic challenges.
The study found food affordability is becoming a growing concern across Atlantic Canada, with 39 per cent of residents ranking it among Canada’s top three issues.
That’s up nine percentage points from 2025.
Researchers also found 74 per cent of Atlantic Canadians reported challenges managing limited financial resources, compared with 65 per cent nationally.
Over half, or 54 per cent, reported using debt or credit to meet basic needs, compared to a national average of 40 percent.
The report found 16 per cent of Atlantic Canadians accessed community food supports in 2026.
“For many people, the cost of living isn’t just about cutting back on extras anymore,” Woodland said.
“It’s about making difficult decisions between groceries, housing and other essential expenses. When families are relying on credit or stretching limited resources just to get by, it becomes harder to manage an unexpected bill or financial setback.”
Financial vulnerability extends beyond food costs
The report points to broader financial vulnerability across the region, particularly when households face unexpected emergencies.
Nearly four in 10 Atlantic Canadians said they would need financial assistance within a week if they were displaced by a natural disaster or major emergency.
“When an emergency forces a family from their home, the costs of temporary accommodation, food and transportation can add up quickly,” Woodland said.
“For households already stretching every dollar, those additional expenses can turn an emergency into a financial crisis.”
Nationally, 31 per cent of Canadians reported their household had been directly affected by a natural disaster or major emergency in the past five years.
Tariff concerns adding to uncertainty
The report also found economic uncertainty remains a concern for many Atlantic Canadians.
Nearly two-thirds of respondents in the region, or 63 per cent, said their household had felt a financial impact from U.S. tariffs or trade disputes.
Meanwhile, 86 per cent said they were concerned that the proposed U.S. tariffs would increase prices for everyday goods.
The same percentage agreed that organizations that provide social supports and community services play an important role in helping families navigate the economic impacts of global trade.
As financial pressures continue, optimism appears to be slipping.
The report revealed that only 43 percent of people in Atlantic Canada feel positive about their financial situation in the next couple of years, which is down from 49 percent in 2025.
Woodland said community support remains critical as more households face financial challenges.
“At The Salvation Army, we believe no one should have to face food insecurity alone,” she said.
“Through food banks, community meals and practical assistance, we’re helping people access the essentials they need while offering dignity and hope during difficult times.”
