Province Expands, Improves Nova Scotia School Lunch Program
The Province’s school lunch program will be available in all elementary, middle and junior high schools this year. (Province of Nova Scotia / File)
The Nova Scotia School Lunch Program will return this fall and expand to include all elementary, middle and junior high schools with enhanced ordering and new menu options.
More than 104,000 students in 334 schools across the province can enjoy nutritious, delicious school lunches as schools launch their lunch programs throughout September and October.
“This year’s school lunch program is expanding to more schools, ordering is easier than ever and our updated menu has something for everyone,” said Brendan Maguire, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. “We are doing everything we can to make life easier and more affordable for families, and part of that is making sure the Nova Scotia School Lunch program meets the needs of students across the province.”
This year’s lunch menu has been updated with new and improved kid-friendly options such as chicken nuggets with wedges and mac and cheese. Ordering system functionality has been improved so families only need to select their school and confirm their child's name. Service and delivery standards for third-party vendors have also been strengthened.
Lunch program start dates are now listed by school at https://nslunch.ca/, along with the new menu and answers to frequently asked questions. Families receive direct messages about when and how to order and other details before ordering starts for their school. The ordering window at 290 schools that will have lunch available starting September 8 or September 15 is open until noon today, September 3.
Quotes:
"Partnering with Nova Scotia means more kids can now count on a healthy lunch at school and more parents will see their grocery bills go down. This will give children the chance to thrive and make life more affordable for families across the province.”
— Anna Gainey, federal Secretary of State for Children and Youth
Quick Facts:
- in its first year, the Nova Scotia School Lunch Program was available to more than 75,000 students in 256 schools
- in 2025-26, the Province is investing $80 million in the program
- through the Government of Canada’s National School Food Program, Nova Scotia is receiving $12.4 million over three years to enhance and expand school food programs