Facing the Impact: Brian Markle Responds to U.S. Tariffs, Food Shortages & Addiction Crises in Canada
With rising concerns over new U.S. tariffs affecting Canadian imports, families across the country are bracing for a new wave of food shortages and higher grocery bills. These economic shifts are hitting the most vulnerable populations hardest—those already facing poverty, mental health struggles, and addiction.
Brian Markle, an Addiction and Community Services Worker (ACSW), CASCC advocate, and member of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), is taking real steps to help people who are already stretched thin. Through his outreach, he’s turning rising pressure into purposeful action.
“When food becomes a privilege and not a right, the community must step in,” Markle shared. “We can’t wait for policy changes—people are hungry now.”
Rising Food Costs: A Direct Threat to Canadian Families
With tariffs targeting agriculture, food distribution, and cross-border trade, the cost of staples like dairy, produce, and meat is expected to spike in the coming months. Already, food banks are feeling the squeeze—and so are working families.
Markle recognizes that these changes don’t just affect what's on the table—they affect mental health, stability, and a person’s sense of dignity. That’s why he's expanding partnerships with ministries and grassroots organizations already in the trenches.
Partnering for Impact: Supporting Food Access & Recovery
Markle is now collaborating with food programs like Fire of God Ministries Ottawa, Pastor Alex, Pastor Sue Landry, Marie Pyper, and Chaplain Cindy Orleck, - helping facilitate food donations from local grocery stores and suppliers. These partnerships are vital for keeping shelves stocked and families fed, especially in underserved neighbourhoods.
Through his ongoing outreach work, Markle is also working with individuals facing alcohol and drug addiction, with a special focus on those suffering silently through the economic downturn.
As someone who is actively working their own recovery through AA, Markle understands the unique pressure addiction places on individuals already overwhelmed by financial uncertainty.

Community Advocate Brian Markle Responds to Food Shortages Fueled by U.S. Tariffs

Ottawa, ON — March 2025
As the effects of newly implemented U.S. tariffs ripple across Canadian supply chains, families in Ottawa are already feeling the impact at the grocery store. Rising prices—particularly on produce, dairy, and grains—are straining household budgets and increasing demand on local food programs. In response, Ottawa-based advocate Brian Markle is mobilizing grassroots solutions to meet urgent community needs.
Markle, a long-standing Addiction and Community Services Worker (ACSW) and active member of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), is leading efforts to address growing food insecurity and provide support to individuals battling addiction and mental health challenges.
“These tariffs may look like political policy on paper, but for the families I work with, they mean empty cupboards and tougher choices,” said Markle. “We’re seeing more people unable to afford the basics. That’s unacceptable.”
Partnering with Local Programs to Meet the Need
In coordination with Fire of God Ottawa and other grassroots ministries, Markle is securing surplus food donations from local grocery stores and food suppliers. His initiative aims to ensure that viable food doesn’t go to waste, but instead supports families most affected by the current economic strain.
“If stores can’t sell it, we’ll make sure it feeds someone,” Markle added.
These efforts are vital as Ottawa’s food banks and outreach centers report sharp increases in demand coupled with reduced availability of donations due to inflation and supply chain disruptions.
Supporting Addiction Recovery Amid Economic Stress
In addition to addressing food insecurity, Markle is extending his support to those struggling with substance use—particularly alcohol, which remains a significant concern post-pandemic. Drawing from his own recovery journey in AA, Markle is providing transportation, mentorship, and emotional support to help individuals attend meetings and stay connected to recovery networks.
“Alcoholism thrives in isolation,” he explained. “Helping someone get to a meeting can be the first step back into a supportive community.”
Markle’s Action Plan for 2025
To address the intersecting challenges of food insecurity, addiction, and mental health, Markle is actively developing and launching the following initiatives:
Expanding food donation partnerships with local grocery stores
Supporting outreach and distribution through organizations like Fire of God Ottawa
Coordinating transportation and outreach for AA meetings
assisting in drop-in support groups for mental health and addiction recovery
helping iwith agencies who are Distributing emergency food and hygiene kits to those in crisis
Hosting anxiety and stress management workshops for affected community members
Call for Community Support
Markle is calling on local businesses, churches, and individuals to collaborate and contribute—whether through food, time, funding, or simply spreading the word.

“This is bigger than politics—it’s about people,” Markle said. “We have a chance to stand up and support each other. The time to act is now.”

Brian Markle’s Commitment to Recovery and Helping Others

Brian Markle believes that helping others through recovery is not just a duty but a calling to lift those still struggling. His dedication to supporting those in need reflects his unwavering commitment to sobriety and community service.

Brian Markle - A Journey of Sobriety, Faith, and Community Service

Sobriety is a journey that requires strength, perseverance, and a supportive community.

Brian Markle is a testament to the power of resilience and commitment to change.

Celebrating many years in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), he marked January 7th, 2021, as a significant milestone in his sobriety alongside the legacy of Bill W., the co-founder of AA.

Throughout the pandemic, Brian Markle dedicated himself to assisting fellow alcoholics, ensuring that even in times of isolation, support and guidance were available.

His dedication to helping others overcome addiction highlights his unwavering belief in second chances and the transformative power of sobriety.

Brian Markle’s journey has been shaped by both his education and his faith.

A graduate of Centennial College’s Police Foundations program, he gained a deep understanding of law enforcement principles and public service.

These skills have influenced his advocacy work, equipping him with the knowledge and determination to address critical social issues such as addiction and mental health.

His latest endeavor is the establishment of a new residential treatment center for individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges.

Recognizing the urgent need for accessible and compassionate rehabilitation services, Brian Markle envisions a space where individuals can find comprehensive care, counseling, and a supportive community to aid in their recovery.

This initiative is a reflection of his belief that everyone deserves an opportunity to heal and reclaim their lives.

Beyond his work in recovery, Brian Markle is also a devoted pastor who brings people together through faith and love.

Recently, he officiated the wedding of Jason and Hilda from Cornwall, an experience that reaffirmed his dedication to community service and unity.

His compassionate nature and ability to uplift those around him make him a pillar of strength for many who seek guidance and encouragement.

Brian Markle’s story is of perseverance, faith, and an unyielding commitment to helping others.
Whether through his work in AA, his plans for a treatment center, or his role as a pastor, he continues to make a lasting impact on those he serves.

His journey is a reminder that true transformation is possible with determination and the right support.