Advocacy Update: Key Recommendations for Dietitians in 2025 Pre-Budget Report

Building a Healthier Future Together: Advocacy Wins for Dietitians

Dietitians of Canada is proud to share some key recommendations from the 2025 pre-budget consultation report that align closely with our advocacy priorities. These recommendations represent steps forward for addressing pressing issues like food insecurity, supporting the dietetic profession, and improving the health of Canadians. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Tackling Income and Food Insecurity
We celebrate the commitment to reduce household food insecurity by 50% by 2030 and eliminate severe food insecurity. Key recommendations include:

• Development of a National Basic Income Program.
• Enhancements to income support programs for seniors and Canadians with disabilities.

Dietitians of Canada has long advocated for income-based solutions to address food insecurity. These measures will play a pivotal role in creating equitable access to food for all Canadians.

2. Expanding Student Loan Forgiveness for Dietitians
A stronger health workforce starts with supporting the next generation of dietitians. We are thrilled to see a recommendation to expand the Canada Student Loan Forgiveness Program to include dietitians. This initiative will:

• Address recruitment and retention challenges in underserved areas.
• Provide critical financial relief for future dietitians.

As we head into the New Year, Dietitians of Canada is gearing up to lead this important conversation. Our CEO will chair an Extended Healthcare Professionals Coalition working group. 

3. Strengthening the National School Food Program
As a member of the Coalition for Healthy School Food, we are pleased to see recommendations to:

• Extend funding for the National School Food Program.
• Embed the program into legislation, ensuring long-term stability for generations of students.

These actions are essential for building a healthier future for all children in Canada. Dietitians of Canada will continue to advocate for sustained support for this program.

What’s Next?
Dietitians of Canada remains committed to championing these priorities and more. Stay tuned for updates in the New Year as we continue to work with policymakers, coalition partners, and our networks to drive meaningful change.

Get Involved:
Your voice matters! Join us in amplifying these important advocacy efforts:

• Share our social media posts to spread the message.  
• Connect with your local MP to support these recommendations.  
• Reach out to us to learn how you can contribute to our advocacy initiatives.

Together, we can create a healthier, more equitable future for all Canadians.