Ontario Becomes Third Province to Adopt the National School Food Program
Brampton, Friday, November 22, 2024 – The Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF/FCE) applauds today’s announcement by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Jenna Sudds, and the Ontario Minister of Education Jill Dunlop to expand school food programs in Ontario under the National School Food Program. This partnership will provide nutritious, healthy meals to more students across the province, making Ontario the third province to adopt this transformative initiative.
In the spring, the federal government first committed to funding a National School Food Program in its 2024 Federal Budget, investing $1 billion over five years. This funding will be distributed annually, with $200 million allocated each year to participating provinces and territories.
The agreement, announced this morning in Brampton, represents a significant milestone in Canada’s efforts to ensure every child has access to nutritious meals. Ontario is receiving $108.5 million through this three-year agreement. This funding will enhance and expand existing programs, including the Student Nutrition Program and the First Nations Student Nutrition Program, allowing over 160,000 students to benefit from over 9.8 million meals in the first year alone. The funding will be distributed through existing mechanisms.
Heidi Yetman, President of the CTF/FCE, expressed strong support for the program, stating: “Teachers across Canada know how important it is for students to have food in their belly when they are learning at school. When they are not hungry and can focus in school, students are far more likely to graduate and go onto futures where they contribute to their communities and country.”
“Today is a good day in this province and I’m confident that the other provinces and territories will also have their day of celebration when they commit to the future of children by coming to an agreement with the federal government.” She added.
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About the CTF/FCE
Founded in 1920, the CTF/FCE is a national alliance of provincial and territorial teachers’ organizations that represent over 365,000 teachers and education workers across Canada. The CTF/FCE is also an affiliate of Education International, which represents more than 32-million educators.
Media Contact
Nika Quintao, Director of Public Affairs
Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF/FCE)
[email protected]
Mobile: 613-688-4319
