If you’re a Londoner struggling to make ends meet this year, statistics show that you are not the only one.
The 2025 Canadian Poverty and Socioeconomic Analysis report has been released by The Salvation Army, with findings that show the rising cost of living and impact of tariffs are hitting Ontario harder than anywhere else in Canada.
“Many people are just holding things together, but just barely,” said Gina Haggett, Public Relations Officer for The Salvation Army.
(Credit: The Salvation Army website)
People are only hoping that despite financial pressures, they can be paid enough to keep up with everyday needs, Haggett says, with all kinds of impacts being seen across the board.
Key statistics of the survey findings involving 1500 respondents include:
- Cost of living and inflation remain top concern for 79% of Ontarians
- Job insecurity has risen eight percentage points from last year
- 86 per cent of Ontarians say tariffs are driving up the cost of everyday items, and 66 per cent report direct household impact
- 45% of Ontario residents feel optimistic about their financial future
Despite these struggles, “people continue to give, we are seeing that, people continue to volunteer, people continue to look out for one another,” said Haggett.
“It’s a blessing to others and it’s a blessing to The Salvation Army so that we can support the hundreds and thousands that need help all across Ontario.”
The Salvation Army will kick off its largest national campaign, the Christmas Kettle Campaign, on Nov. 18, and is strongly encouraging donations during the season of giving.
