The federal government is introducing a National School Food Program in the 2024 budget.
The program will invest $1 billion over five years to provide meals to 400,000 more kids.
“The National School Food Program is a game changer. The Program will take pressure off of families, invest directly in the future of our kids, and make sure they’re able to reach their full potential – feeling healthy and happy. This is about fairness and doing what’s right for our kids to get the best start in life,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
The federal government says the National School Food Program will help provinces, territories and indigenous partners expand their existing school food programs.
“We’re creating a National School Food Program because kids learn better on a full stomach. This Program will have an incredible impact, supporting parents with the higher cost of groceries, and giving children every opportunity to learn, grow, and reach their full potential,” said Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Jenna Sudds.
The budget will be tabled on April 16, 2024.