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Many across the country have received the new Canada Grocery and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) on June 5, but residents are speaking out on how this payment is still not quite enough to help the average Canadian.
Eligible Canadians ages 19 and up were expected to receive between $267 to $533 depending on the person’s family situation as part of an affordability series rolled out by Prime Minister Mark Carney.
People took to social media to voice their opinions on this payment as many are saying that this benefit is not enough to help in this economy.
“ALOT of us don’t qualify and it should be for EVERYONE!!!!!” a user commented on The Brandon Gonez Show post.
“It’s unfortunate that not a lot of families qualify that have kids and also buy groceries,” said another user.
The Brandon Gonez Show asked local residents if they received the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit and whether they felt the amount provided was sufficient.
“Well, it could always be more, right? Because our cost of living has increased in terms of rent, groceries, you know,” said Toronto local Beryl-Ann Mark.
According to Canada’s Food Price Report (CFPR), in 2026 the average family of four is expected to spend over $17,000 for the year.
“I mean, it’s [CGEB] definitely not enough. If you look at the cost of inflation, how much food has gone up over the last few years, it’s definitely outpaced the general inflation that we have,” Daniel F. told The Brandon Gonez Show.
The rising cost of groceries has left many wondering who carries the responsibility, large grocery corporations or governments failing to provide enough support for struggling households.
“Well, I think the grocery stores are greedy, because, I think they’re profiting way more than they need,” said Russia E. “Lower your prices, it’s really that simple. You guys can afford it. Food is a necessity.”
Canadians are feeling the need to sacrifice essential goods because of rising costs, and food prices are predicted to increase by 4 per cent to 6 per cent this year.
“I would say that we need to work collectively to find something that is affordable, especially when it comes to the essentials. We don’t want people resulting in just the junk food that’s on sale. We want people to have access to high-quality foods,” Daniel F. adds.
