Nova Scotia Expands School Lunch Program to Over 100,000 Students

Nova Scotia has significantly expanded its school lunch program, now reaching over 100,000 students across the province. This year, the initiative includes a revamped menu and simplified ordering process, available in all elementary, middle, and junior high schools. Following a successful pilot last fall that started in 250 elementary schools, the program now serves a total of 334 schools.

According to Aimee Gasparetto, executive director of Nourish Nova Scotia, the expansion includes feedback from students and school communities that shaped this year’s menu changes. During an interview with CBC Radio’s Information Morning, Gasparetto mentioned that high schools will be included in future phases of the program.

The new offerings incorporate approximately 10 new full menu items, with the possibility of adding another 10 later in the year. These items include popular choices like chicken nuggets, roasted potato wedges, chili, and veggie burgers. Gasparetto emphasized that all meals adhere to Nova Scotia’s school food and nutrition policy, ensuring they are made from scratch and contain no pre-packaged or processed foods.

Funding and Accessibility of the Program

The program is backed by $80 million in government funding for this school year, aimed at providing equitable access to nutritious food. It operates on a pay-what-you-can model, allowing families to confidentially manage payment information. While the initiative helps alleviate some financial burdens related to food, Gasparetto acknowledged that it does not address the broader issue of household food insecurity. She stated, “Food insecurity is an income issue,” highlighting that the program aims to ease economic and time constraints on families rather than solve food access challenges entirely.

Looking forward, Gasparetto expressed her hope that the program will foster positive food cultures in schools. This vision includes ongoing menu development, increased food literacy education, and strengthened partnerships within the community. “There’s so much room to grow in those areas,” she said, indicating a commitment to further enhance the initiative.

The expansion of Nova Scotia’s school lunch program not only aims to provide nutritious meals but also to contribute to healthier school environments. As the program evolves, it stands to play a vital role in shaping the dietary habits of students across the province.