More and more seniors are coming to Scott Mission for food, clothing, and emotional and spiritual support.
Last fall the CBC reported that “record numbers” of clients are using food banks across Canada and that the situation is even “more dire” in Toronto. Today’s food bank use represents a 90 percent increase over 2019. One third of food bank clients are children and seniors, and nearly 30 percent of Canadian food banks report running out of food. [1] Â
Our nation is facing a monumental food security crisis, and Youqin, a senior who moved into seniors’ housing in 2015, knows it all too well. “When I started coming to Scott Mission’s food bank, I hadn’t yet started to receive my old age pension, so the food was such a big help. And now, even with the government assistance, I still can’t buy what I need to live.”
“I’m so grateful for everyone who helps us, and I thank God for everything I receive here – the food, Bible studies, and friendship.”
Despite government assistance, Youqin, like many other seniors, finds it increasingly challenging to pay her bills, on a fixed income – due to inflation and the lack of affordable housing. She relies on our food and clothing banks to get by and says, “It’s hard for seniors like me to make ends meet.”
Youqin also participates in the activities and community events at Scott Mission, and she regularly attends a Bible study group, to stay connected with others and to avoid the isolation and loneliness that so many seniors experience. “I’ve learned a lot about God through this group and I was recently baptized”, she says happily. Â
This dear lady is very thankful for everything she receives at the Mission and her big smile shows us just how much. “Without extra support, life is hard for seniors like me. I thank God that Scott Mission has these resources available for me and for others – thank you!”Â
Because you care….seniors like Youqin are receiving the help and hope they need.
I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.  – Philippians 1:3-6 NIV
[1] “Record food bank numbers nationally felt ‘on the ground’ in Toronto, expert says.” CBC Toronto. October 28, 2024. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/food-banks-canada-hungercount-2024-report-toronto-1.7366156.
