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2020 is a year marked by change. For people who already faced hunger, the pandemic made a bad situation worse. So who stepped in to help? This episode explores how food banks are working to meet increased demand, and asks hard questions about systemic issues causing food insecurity. You’ll also hear from grassroots community groups taking matters of food access into their own hands across the province.

For some, CERB was a financial lifeline. It meant that for the first time in a long while, recipients could afford to keep a stocked fridge. For other Ontarians, the $500 weekly installment didn’t go quite far enough. In this episode you'll hear, firsthand, the impact government assistance can have… and what happens when that support changes.

How do you decide between putting food on the table and buying much-needed medication? In this episode, the focus is on organizations working towards food sovereignty by proposing a new way forward. A future where people don't have to choose between skipping meals or taking care of their health.

One in seven Canadians are affected by food insecurity. Season 2 of Hard to Stomach, hosted by CBC's Jason D'Souza, examines the interconnected issues of economic uncertainty, affordable housing and access to food amidst a global pandemic. All episodes of Season 2 available December 14.