On May 15, Daily Bread Food Bank hosted the first televised debate of the Toronto mayoral by-election campaign. Moderated by Maggie John, TV and radio host, the event focused on how candidates plan to address Toronto’s affordability crisis.
With food bank visits reaching a record high of close to 270,000 visits in March, a four-times increase compared to before the pandemic, there has never been a more important time to put food insecurity and poverty at the centre of the political conversation.
The debate was broadcast live from Daily Bread’s warehouse on CP24. Close to 500 guests joined us in person, and thousands more tuned in virtually, sending a strong signal to the candidates that food insecurity, affordable housing, public transit, and poverty reduction and top priorities this election campaign.
The top six polling candidates were invited to participate. We were pleased to have Ana Bailão, Brad Bradford, Olivia Chow, Mitzie Hunter, and Josh Matlow take part in the debate. Mark Saunders declined the invitation.
To hear what the candidates said on critical issues impacting our city, check out the recording of the debate below:
Remember to cast your vote! Your voice matters in shaping the future of Toronto. Election day is June 26 and advance polling runs June 8 – June 13. More information on how to vote can be found here.
