Over the past week, several lifestyle and fitness influencers have promoted a trend called the CDB diet, challenging people to live on $6.67 per day or $200 a month. It promises mindful eating, built-in control portion, and financial discipline.
The catch? The CDB diet isn’t a lifestyle choice — it’s the reality of the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) and the concept behind a bold national awareness campaign from Daily Bread Food Bank and a coalition of over 50 food banks and disability rights organizations, aiming to spotlight the inadequacy of the new benefit.
Thanks to tireless advocacy by disability rights organizations and coalitions across Canada, including the Fund the Benefit coalition led by Daily Bread, the CDB launched in June 2025.
Immediately following its launch, Daily Bread initiated a multi-channel campaign to raise awareness and support applicants, featuring radio ads, an instructional video, and a dedicated webpage. We also provided resources to hundreds of elected officials nationwide to help them assist their constituents in applying for the benefit.
While the CDB represents a positive step, its current maximum of $200 per month falls far short of what’s needed to afford necessities and live with dignity. The Government’s own estimates suggest that of the 1.5 million Canadians with disabilities living in poverty, only 600,000 will qualify for the benefit, and just 25,000 are expected to be lifted out of poverty by 2034-35.
Many Canadians with disabilities continue to face impossible choices every day: groceries, rent, or medication.
Designed to spark important conversation about this gap, the CDB Diet campaign amplifies the call for a stronger benefit that can truly reduce food insecurity and poverty for persons living with disabilities. It draws attention to the reality of living on income supports and shines a light on the urgent need for change.
We need a CDB that is adequate, accessible, and able to make a meaningful impact on disability poverty and food insecurity in Canada.
Learn more about the CDB Diet campaign.
Join us in fighting for a stronger CDB by sending a letter to your elected officials.
