As the cost of living increases, Nova Scotia charities are bracing for an even more challenging year, and concerns are growing over the impact of proposed U.S. tariffs, which would impose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods. This could affect food banks, mental health initiatives, and community organizations struggling to meet demand.
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Peter Raju, President and Owner of the Peace Arch Duty-Free Shop, said that when B.C. Premier David Eby urged residents to buy local and rethink possible travel plans to the U.S.; business dried up dramatically.
“It’s over 80 per cent,” “I mean, it’s unbelievable. But it is a fact.” Raju said of how much business has declined.
From his observations, he said Canadians are not crossing the border, and very few Americans are entering Canada and the store. He emphasized they would have no option but to close down if things did not improve.
“We’ve been in business for over 40 years, and for the last 20 months, during COVID, we have been closed. And now, with this situation, there’s no way financially we can remain open until the provincial government intervenes.”
McKenzie McMillan, a travel consultant with The Travel Group, said they’ve had several clients who have already cancelled or are planning summer vacations and are now saying, ‘Please find me somewhere else.’ Or, ‘Where’s another place I can go that is similarly priced or a similar distance away?’
He thinks that beyond the tariffs, the 51st State’s comments have hit a nerve with many Canadians, they’re much more emotional about the situation and are making tangible changes to their plans. Many people are already struggling to make ends meet amid the high cost of living, which will only worsen the situation.
Romaine Rhoden with Parker Street Food & Furniture Bank said it’s nerve-wracking. They’ve already seen a significant shift in demand since the beginning of this year, which means more people are coming to them for food support.
Beacon House, which operates a food bank, thrift store, and shelter, has also seen more people enter its doors. Currently, it serves about 1,500 people each month, which is rising. Jim Gunn, Beacon House Interfaith Society Board Chair, spoke of the organization’s readiness to handle increasing numbers if food and fuel costs increase.
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The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia stands firm
While food security remains a critical issue, the impact of economic instability on mental health cannot be ignored. One of the Nova Scotia charities, the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, champions and invests in mental health initiatives in Nova Scotian communities. It raises funds to provide hope and help to Nova Scotians who live with mental illness and addiction and their loved ones.
Their mission is to make a difference in the lives of Nova Scotians by funding mental health and addiction initiatives. Their vision is to see Nova Scotians living with mental illness and addiction thriving in their communities.
The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia funds unique and diverse programs for the communities they serve. These programs serve people of all ages and life stages and include initiatives that provide education, peer support, and community connection.Â
From small, rural communities to larger centers, they make a difference and change people’s thinking. The foundation funds community-based programs through granting programs in all parts of Nova Scotia. Â
As Nova Scotia charities keep up with demands being met, they call on local and provincial support to help with the challenging situation. As much as their resilience would be tested, they remain committed to supporting one another.