Economic Challenges
Why We Give - Economic Challenges
In communities across Canada, more and more families are struggling to afford essentials like clothing, school supplies, and even recreational gear for their kids. Inflation, job insecurity, and rising costs are putting pressure on everyday households.
​
Economic pressures are mounting across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), including Mississauga. Rising living costs—especially housing, food, and transportation—have made it increasingly difficult for families to balance their budgets. In Toronto alone, nearly 38 % of residents reported financial difficulty in late 2023 .
​
Inflation and household budgets under pressure
From 2019 to 2024, the price of essential goods and services for the average Canadian household rose by 17.4 %, with food increasing by 23.3 % and shelter by 24.0 % policyalternatives.ca+1www150.statcan.gc.ca+1.
Financial hardship is increasing
As of January 2024, nearly one-third (32.8%) of Canadians reported that it was difficult or very difficult to meet their financial needs, such as rent, mortgage payments, groceries, or transportation costs. This is up from 18.6% in mid-2021.
Source: Statistics Canada, January 2024 https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/240118/dq240118a-eng.htm
​
Why Welcome Drive Steps Up
At Welcome Drive, we believe every child deserves to start the school year with pride, stay warm in the winter, and feel included in team sports and school life. Our drives make that happen — through the kindness of our volunteers and donors.
Welcome Drive helps close the gap. We provide backpacks full of school supplies, warm winter coats, and hockey gear to families who are struggling—not just to give material support, but to send a message: you’re not alone.
In times of economic strain, we believe in community-first solutions that support dignity, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all children—starting here, in Toronto and Mississauga.