Across our communities, more and more people are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living. Groceries, rent, fuel, and basic necessities are increasing in price at a pace that wages simply can’t match. For many families, this means stretching every dollar further, sacrificing essentials, or even slipping into poverty. At the Upper Room Mission, we see the direct impact of these economic strains every day. The growing divide between wages and the cost of living is not just an economic issue—it’s a social crisis. So, what are the Social consequences?

The Social Consequences

1. Increased Food Insecurity When wages don’t keep up with inflation, food insecurity rises. Families that once managed to get by now find themselves turning to food banks and community kitchens just to put meals on the table. This has led to an overwhelming demand for services that support those in need, stretching charities and nonprofits to their limits. (In March 2024, there were over 2 million visits to food banks in Canada — the highest number in history. Find out more here.)
2. Housing Instability and Homelessness Affordable housing is becoming a distant dream for many. As rent and mortgage rates climb, even dual-income households struggle to stay housed. This leads to increased homelessness, overcrowding, and reliance on emergency shelters. People working full-time jobs should not be living in their cars or facing eviction due to skyrocketing costs. (Over half of Canadians (54%) have observed a rise in homelessness over the past year in their community, with British Columbia (60%) and Ontario (57%) residents more likely to have observed an increase in homelessness. Find out more here.)
3. Mental Health Struggles Financial stress is a significant contributor to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. When people are constantly worried about paying bills, their overall well-being deteriorates. This not only affects individuals but also places an increased burden on healthcare systems and social services. (People with depression and problem debt are 4.2 times more likely to still have depression 18 months later than people without financial difficulty. People in problem debt are three times as likely to have thought about suicide in the past year. Find out more here.)

What Can We Do?

1. Advocate for Fair Wages Encouraging businesses to pay a living wage is crucial. Governments must also play a role in adjusting minimum wages to reflect the real cost of living. Supporting policies that promote fair pay and worker protections can help close the gap.
2. Strengthen Social Safety Nets Expanding access to affordable housing, food assistance programs, and healthcare can provide a buffer for those struggling. Investing in these programs ensures people don’t fall through the cracks.
3. Support Local Organizations Nonprofits like the Upper Room Mission are on the frontlines of this crisis. Donating, volunteering, or even spreading awareness about the work they do can make a difference. Community-based efforts can help address immediate needs while advocating for long-term solutions.
4. Encourage Affordable Housing Initiatives Governments and private developers need to collaborate on increasing affordable housing options. Incentives for affordable rental units, rent controls, and social housing projects can provide relief for those most affected.
5. Strengthen Community Connections Economic hardship doesn’t just impact individuals—it affects entire neighbourhoods. Creating community networks where people support each other, share resources, and advocate for change can build resilience and solidarity.

Final Thoughts

The cost of living crisis is not just a financial issue—it’s a moral one. We must ask ourselves what kind of communities we want to build. Do we want a society where full-time workers can’t afford to live? Where children go hungry because groceries are too expensive? Where housing is a privilege rather than a right?

This challenge requires action at all levels—government, businesses, nonprofits, and individuals. By working together, we can push for systemic changes that ensure no one is left behind.

At the Upper Room Mission, we continue to stand in the gap for those in need, but we also know that charity alone isn’t enough. We must advocate, educate, and act. Because when the most vulnerable in our communities suffer, we all do.

How will you take action today?