In a significant step toward supporting Canadian families, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today announced an agreement with the Government of Ontario to expand school food programs under the federal government’s National School Food Program. This initiative will deliver healthy meals to 160,000 more children in Ontario during the current school year, saving a two-child family approximately $800 annually in grocery costs.
The federal government is making an initial investment of $108.5 million over three years to bolster these programs. This funding will not only increase the availability of healthy meals but also reduce costs associated with food transportation, storage, and preparation. Over 9.8 million additional meals will be served to children across Ontario, including 130,000 more meals in Indigenous communities.
“Today’s agreement with Ontario, under our National School Food Program, will get healthy school meals to 160,000 more kids and reduce hundreds of dollars in grocery bills for families,” said the Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada. “With the tax break for all Canadians, the Working Canadians Rebate, and now the school food agreement with Ontario, our government is putting more money in your pocket.”
Investing in Children and Families
The National School Food Program, a cornerstone of the federal government’s plan to strengthen the middle class, is designed to ensure that children across Canada have access to nutritious meals at school. This initiative also serves as a vital safety net for children in need, while helping families and educators create better learning environments.
“Kids who aren’t hungry learn better, play harder, and feel stronger,” said the Hon. Jenna Sudds, Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development. “Today’s agreement demonstrates a shared goal toward ensuring that more children in Ontario have access to the healthy meals they need to succeed. And for parents, it gives them peace of mind, knowing that their kids are getting the fuel they need to focus on just being kids.”
Voices from Local Leaders
Local MPs and ministers also highlighted the importance of this initiative:
- Maninder Sidhu, MP for Brampton East: “This program will directly benefit families in Brampton and across Ontario. By investing in school meals, we’re not just feeding children; we’re empowering them to thrive academically and socially. This is a win for families and a win for our future.”
- Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Youth: “This partnership between Ontario and the federal government will have a profound impact on children and families in our communities. Nutritious meals fuel not just their bodies but their dreams, ensuring every child has an equal chance to succeed.”
- Ruby Sahota, MP for Brampton North: “The National School Food Program is a lifeline for families struggling with rising costs. Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to reducing food insecurity and creating healthier, stronger communities.”
- Shafqat Ali, MP for Brampton Centre: “This program is a testament to our government’s dedication to helping working families. By expanding school food programs, we’re ensuring that no child goes to school hungry and that every family feels supported.”
Building a Stronger Canada
The National School Food Program is just one of many initiatives by the federal government aimed at putting more money back into the pockets of Canadians. Alongside the expanded school food program, the government recently announced a tax break for all Canadians and the Working Canadians Rebate, providing financial relief and support to millions.
“Healthy school meals are not just about food—they’re about giving every child the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed,” added Trudeau. “We’re building a Canada where no family has to choose between feeding their children and paying their bills.”