Addressing the Food Affordability Crisis: The Urgent Need for Enhanced Support in School Nutrition Programs

Despite the dedicated efforts of numerous local organizations nationwide to provide student nutrition programs, many schools face funding shortages that hinder their ability to purchase sufficient nutritious food for students. A recent study focusing on elementary schools in southern Ontario, including Hamilton and Peel Region, highlights that current school food programs are often unable to meet the nutritional needs of hungry students. Teachers have reported that children as young as four come to school without enough food to sustain their energy and focus throughout the day.

As an expert in food security and nutrition, I collaborated with academic colleagues and the Coalition for Healthy School Food to examine these issues. Fortunately, in 2024, the Canadian government introduced a new National School Food Program and related policies. By March 2025, federal authorities had established agreements with all provinces and territories to support school nutrition initiatives. This move presents an opportunity for Canada to modernize its school food landscape, aligning it with other G7 nations with established programs.

Survey data from parents and teachers in Hamilton and Peel reveal strong support for a universal, accessible school food program. A significant majority (96%) expressed interest in enrolling their children, and over 77% were willing to contribute financially. Benefits cited include improved dietary quality, reduced reliance on processed foods, better learning and behavior, and enhanced nutrition education.

However, funding disparities remain a major obstacle. The initial federal investment of $79 million was exhausted quickly, and provinces like Saskatchewan and Ontario allocate significantly less per student compared to the national average—only three to nine cents daily per student—compared to places like Nova Scotia with $3.30. Without substantial increases in provincial funding, the vision for comprehensive national programs cannot be realized in these underfunded regions.

Implementing effective school food programs also involves logistical challenges. Ideas such as centralized kitchens and partnerships with local food businesses are being considered, alongside concerns about maintaining food quality and managing environmental impacts of packaging. Additionally, school schedules, especially in Ontario, where students have limited time to eat during balanced day models, need to be adapted to ensure children have enough opportunity to consume nutritious meals.

Inclusion and cultural diversity are also critical. Parents and teachers emphasize the need to accommodate dietary restrictions, religious considerations, and personal preferences, including halal, vegetarian, and allergen-free options. Transparent menus and communication can foster trust and inclusivity.

Community involvement, such as engaging students, families, local farms, and volunteers, is vital for fostering a sense of ownership and ensuring programs meet local needs. Flexible, culturally sensitive, and inclusive models can promote a welcoming environment for all students.

While the challenges are significant, the opportunity to rebuild Canada's school food system with equitable, nutritious, and accessible options is within reach. Continued investment, innovative logistics, and community partnership are essential to ensure that all children have access to the healthy food they need to thrive.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-food-crisis-school.html