How to vote in the Canadian election with food insecurity as your priority

Voting is a powerful tool that can help address food insecurity in our communities. This election comes at a critical moment when we need immediate action to support people in need today, but also long-term policy solutions that address the root causes of food insecurity. In Canada, there are over 2 million food bank visits each month, and this election presents a pivotal moment in our country’s history, where we have an incredible opportunity to significantly impact the future well-being of all people in Canada.

No matter your political party, food insecurity impacts us all.

Here are 5 easy steps on how to vote in Canada with food insecurity as your top priority:

1. Preparing to vote: Before heading to the polls, learn about the candidates and their positions on food insecurity. Stay informed on party platform promises with Food Banks Canada’s platform monitor. Researching their commitments will help you make decisions that align with your own priorities.
2. How to register to vote: If you haven’t already registered to vote, now is the time to do so. The process is straightforward and can be completed online in 1 to 3 minutes for most people.  Frequently asked questions on registration can be found through Elections Canada.
3. Local basics: Political parties choose candidates to run in an election for their riding. As a voter, it’s essential to learn what riding you live in. This is the geographical area that your elected official represents. Some ridings represent several towns, like Niagara West, whereas others represent one part of a larger town, like Edmonton Centre.  After you have figured out your riding, find out who your candidates are. There are 5 main political parties, and most ridings have one candidate representing each party.
4. How to vote: There are several ways to vote:
   • At your assigned polling station on election day (April 28^th). Search for your city, address or postal code on Elections Canada’s Voter Information Services page to find out where it is.
   • At your assigned advanced polling station on advance polling days (April 18^{th –} 21^st) . Visit Elections Canada’s Voter Information Services page to look up the address.
   • At any Elections Canada office before 6 p.m. on April 22
   • By mail, by April 22^nd
5. Vote! Voting is now more convenient than ever, but it still calls for some of your time. It isn’t always easy to follow through on an intention to make your voice heard, but for this pivotal election, let’s get out there and exercise our voting powers, with food insecurity as a priority.