By Ikenna Kingsley Alozie, Youth Ambassador for the Atlantic region
Introduction
From October 18th to 22nd, 2025, I attended Hunger on the Hill, an annual conference that Canadian Foodgrains Bank organizes in Ottawa to highlight the fight against hunger. The event brought together partners, advocates and faith-based organizations from across Canada, all united by a shared purpose to end global hunger and strengthen food justice worldwide. The conference reaffirmed the purpose that Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada (DPCC) shares with the Foodgrains Bank, of which it is a member: to create a world where every person can live in dignity, free from hunger and poverty.
Day 1 – Reflecting on the fight against hunger and learning about the Foodgrains Bank
The conference began with a reflective session on the parable of the sower, which underscored how small actions, like planting a seed, can grow into something that nourishes and sustains life. This metaphor captured the essence of advocacy: how small, consistent efforts can yield global transformation. We also revisited the history of the Foodgrains Bank, its faith-based roots, and its longstanding role in food assistance, resilience and advocacy.
The session deepened our understanding of official development assistance (ODA) and highlighted why sustained Canadian support for global aid programs remains critical to the fight against hunger and poverty. Throughout the day and, indeed, throughout the conference, participants collaborated within assigned group teams. These groups provided spaces for shared reflection, collaboration, and preparation for our later meetings with Members of Parliament (MPs).
Day 2 – Political landscape and food security
The second day focused on understanding Canada’s political landscape and the diverse perspectives of its major parties regarding international development, trade and humanitarian priorities. Participants reviewed the positions of the Liberal, Conservative, NDP, Green and Bloc Québécois parties, noting both areas of alignment and tension regarding international aid and food security.
While some political actors emphasize trade and defence spending, discussions highlighted that global food security and humanitarian support remain at the core of Canada’s moral and global leadership. We also explored the concept of resilient food systems and frameworks that go beyond immediate relief to empower communities in partner countries to become self-sufficient, adaptive and sustainable in the face of climate change and economic challenges.
Day 3 – Panel discussions on food justice and advocacy
The third day featured a compelling panel session with directors of organizations working in food justice and sustainable development. The speakers urged us to ground advocacy in personal experience and to tell stories that connect emotionally with policymakers and inspire empathy.
We learned that advocacy is more than formal lobbying—it is an everyday act. By living out values of compassion, stewardship and justice, we become visible advocates for change. The voices of Canadians, united through awareness and action, have the power to keep global hunger at the forefront of national priorities.
Days 4 – Parliamentary engagement, reflection and closing
October 21 was a defining day of the conference. We began with a visit to Parliament Hill, where we attended the Question Period. Observing the proceedings provided firsthand insight into how national priorities are debated, including issues related to trade, defence, and international aid.
Later that day, our group met separately with three MPs: Bardish Chagger, Scott Anderson and Richard Bragdon. Each meeting lasted about 30 minutes and offered a unique opportunity to discuss Canada’s role in the global fight against hunger. In our conversations, we highlighted:
- The importance of resilient food systems that not only deliver aid but empower communities in partner countries to become self-reliant and adaptive
- The need for Canada to sustain its humanitarian and development aid commitments, particularly in the face of global hunger and climate challenges
- The moral imperative for Canada to continue serving as a leader in justice, solidarity and sustainable development
All three MPs were receptive and engaged meaningfully, expressing appreciation for our perspectives and reaffirming their awareness of Canada’s global responsibilities.
In the evening, the conference concluded with a group dinner and debriefing session, where participants shared reflections from their MP meetings, celebrated the week’s accomplishments, and expressed gratitude for the connections built.
The closing reflections reinforced our commitment to the shared goal of ending world hunger and strengthening global solidarity. The week ended on a hopeful note; participants left inspired, connected and renewed in their determination to continue the advocacy work beyond the conference.
Conclusion: The imperative to end world hunger
This conference in Ottawa was a transformative experience that strengthened our shared resolve to address the urgent issue of hunger through both humanitarian aid and empowerment. As a vital Canadian Foodgrains Bank member and partner, DPCC continues to champion the values of compassion, justice and integral human development.
Our mission goes beyond feeding the hungry. It is about empowering communities to thrive and ensuring that every person has the opportunity to live with dignity. Ending world hunger is not just a policy goal; it is a moral calling that reflects our faith and shared humanity. Through continued advocacy, partnership and action, we can nurture the seeds of hope into a global harvest of justice and peace.