Tariffs, Economic Hardship, and the Power of Community: How You Can Make Change
As a therapist, my role is to support individuals through life’s challenges. But to be a therapist is also to be political. I cannot exist quietly within a system that harms my neighbours and my community when my job is to bring out the best in each individual. Yes, it is my job to provide support individually within a therapy space - but it is also my job to provide support on a macro-level, to speak out against harm and protect the community I support. Right now, with the implementation of new tariffs, we are facing an economic shift that will disproportionately impact low-income individuals—those who are already struggling financially and emotionally. It’s not just about higher prices; it’s about survival. And it’s all hands on deck.
The Impact of Tariffs on Low-Income Communities
Tariffs often lead to price increases on essential goods—groceries, household items, clothing, and more. For individuals already struggling to make ends meet, this means harder choices: paying rent or buying food, affording medication or keeping the lights on. Inflationary pressure caused by tariffs can deepen financial insecurity and contribute to worsening mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression often follow when basic needs feel out of reach.
These economic pressures do more than just affect wallets. They erode our sense of security, stability, and well-being. Financial stress can lead to relationship breakdowns, increased mental health struggles, and even physical health concerns due to lack of access to proper nutrition and medical care.
But there is hope—because we are stronger together.
Fighting Back: Community Solutions
We can’t always control government policies, but we can control how we respond. Collective action can soften the blow of tariffs and economic hardship. Here’s how we can help one another:
Resource Sharing
Buy in Bulk with Neighbors: Groceries and household items are often cheaper in bulk. Split costs with friends or neighbors to make essentials more affordable.
Trade Skills & Goods: Consider barter systems—gardening, knitting, home repairs, childcare—all valuable skills that can be exchanged within the community.
Thrift & Buy Second-Hand: Second-hand stores, thrift shops, and online marketplaces offer affordable and sustainable options for clothing, furniture, and essentials.
Supporting Local & Sustainable Businesses
Buy Canadian: Choosing Canadian-made products helps keep money in our economy, supporting local jobs and reducing reliance on imports affected by tariffs. As Canadians, we take pride in our resilience, our strong communities, and our ability to lift each other up in tough times.
Shop Locally: Supporting small businesses ensures that our neighbors thrive. Look for farmers’ markets, local bakeries, and independent stores instead of large chain retailers.
Invest in Sustainability: Buying second-hand, reusing items, and choosing sustainable products not only saves money but also supports a long-term, eco-friendly economy.
Political Action & Advocacy
Contact Your MP: Reach out to your Member of Parliament and share how these tariffs impact you and your community. Politicians need to hear from their constituents to understand the real-world effects of their decisions.
Volunteer Your Time: Whether it’s food banks, mutual aid groups, or advocacy organizations, your time and skills can make a difference.
Educate & Spread Awareness: Talk to your community about the effects of tariffs and encourage action. Social media, local meetings, and community events are great platforms to amplify voices.
Community Resources in Guelph
If you're struggling financially and need assistance, here are some resources in the Guelph area that can help:
Food Banks & Emergency Support
Guelph Food Bank – 100 Crimea Street | guelphfoodbank.ca | Provides emergency food support.
Two Rivers Neighbourhood Group Food Bank – 131 Ontario Street | tworiversng.com/foodbank | Weekly drop-in food bank.
Hope House Food Market – 75 Norfolk Street | hopehouseguelph.ca/foodmarket | Choice-based pantry for individuals and families.
Salvation Army Guelph Citadel – Community & Family Services – 1320 Gordon Street | guelphsa.ca/familyservices | Offers food hampers, personal care products, and clothing.
Guelph Student Food Bank – 620 Gordon Street | csaonline.ca/foodbank | Available for University of Guelph students.
For a comprehensive list, refer to the Guelph Food Access Guide. You can also dial 2-1-1 for a 24/7 helpline connecting you to local resources.
Therapy as a Support System
Economic stress doesn’t just affect your wallet—it affects your mental health, your relationships, and your overall well-being. If you’re struggling, therapy can be a valuable resource to help you navigate these challenges. Many therapists, myself included, offer sliding-scale or low-income options to make therapy accessible. If you need support but are afraid you can’t afford it, please reach out to me—I want to help. You don’t have to face this alone.
Hope in Community
It’s easy to feel powerless in the face of economic policies that feel distant and unchangeable. But history has shown that when communities band together, real change happens. We are not just individuals facing these challenges alone; we are a collective with the power to support one another, advocate for fair policies, and build systems of care outside of government intervention.
Tariffs may create economic hardship, but they also present an opportunity—an opportunity to reimagine how we take care of each other. By sharing resources, supporting local businesses, and standing up for what’s right, we can create a more resilient and compassionate society.
We are stronger together, and together, we can make a difference.