NS Families to Benefit from New School Lunch Program

Families across Nova Scotia will soon benefit from a groundbreaking initiative aimed at making school lunches both affordable and nutritious. The Nova Scotia School Lunch Program is set to launch in October 2024, marking a significant milestone in Tim Houston’s PC Government’s plan to build up Nova Scotia.

Launching October 2024: Nova Scotia’s School Lunch Program

Starting this October, the Nova Scotia School Lunch Program will be available in all elementary schools across the province. This ambitious initiative is expected to serve over 13 million meals to more than 75,000 students during the 2024-25 school year. The program, which follows a pay-what-you-can model, ensures that every child has access to a healthy meal, regardless of their family’s financial situation.

Healthy, Delicious, and Culturally Diverse Menu

The program’s menu is designed to be both nutritious and diverse, offering options that reflect the cultural richness of Nova Scotia. Meals such as Acadian chicken fricot, murgh makhani (butter chicken), and traditional Mi’kmaw dishes like corn chowder with l’uskinikn are just a few of the 40 rotating menu items. Each meal meets the standards outlined in Canada’s Food Guide and the Nova Scotia School Food and Nutrition Policy.

A Government Initiative for Better Learning Outcomes

Becky Druhan, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development, highlighted the importance of the program: “We know children learn better when they are well-fed, and that’s why we are committed to supporting Nova Scotia’s families with a lunch program that is easy, accessible, and affordable.”

NDP and Liberals Opposed the Program

Despite the broad support from families and educators, it’s important to note that both the NDP and Liberal Party voted against this vital program. Their opposition raises questions about their commitment to addressing the basic needs of Nova Scotia’s children. The program, however, was successfully passed with strong support from the current government, reflecting a clear priority on student health and well-being.

How to Get Involved

Families looking for more information on the new school lunch program can visit the official website at NSLunch.ca. The site provides details on start dates, menu options, and the online ordering system, which will be updated regularly throughout September 2024.

With an $18.8 million investment for the 2024-25 school year, the Nova Scotia government is taking a significant step forward in ensuring that no child goes hungry during the school day. This initiative not only supports student health but also contributes to better learning outcomes, making it a win-win for families across the province.

For those searching for affordable and nutritious school lunch options in Nova Scotia, the School Lunch Program is a game-changer that will make a lasting impact on students and their families.