About this episode

The episode discusses food insecurity in Canada through the lens of a single mother's experience and its impact on families and children.

What is food insecurity—and how does it impact children and families in Canada today? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk , host Lianne Castelino speaks with Lori Nikkel, CEO of Second Harvest, Canada’s largest food rescue organization. Drawing from her lived experience as a single mother raising three children while facing poverty and food insecurity, Lori offers rare insight into what struggling families truly go through. Parents will learn: What food insecurity looks like inside a household How financial stress affects parenting and child development Why 1 in 4 Canadians struggle to afford food The hidden emotional toll on both parents and children Where families can find support beyond food banks Nikkel explains why food insecurity is not about food shortages—but about income, affordability, and systemic challenges. She also shares practical advice and a hopeful message for parents navigating difficult times. Takeaways: Understanding the impacts of food insecurity on mental and emotional health is crucial for parents. Effective communication and community support can help families navigate through challenges of food insecurity. Food insecurity is not just about lack of…

People in this episode

Host: Lianne Castelino

Guest: Lori Nikkel

Topics covered

• food insecurity
• parenting
• child development
• poverty
• community support
• nutrition

Keywords

• food insecurity
• Canada
• single mother
• child nutrition
• financial stress
• community support
• emotional toll

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Second Harvest

Places: Canada

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