National coaltion calls on Sask. government to fork over more money for school lunch programs

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She cited a report done by the Sask. School Boards Association, which talked to principals from across the province.

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“And the principals said where there was a good school lunch program, not just attendance and learning were better , but they really felt mental health amongst the kids was better,” she said.

(Image Credit: Coalition for Healthy School Food.)

In March of last year, the provincial and federal governments signed a $15.8 million, three-year agreement under Canada’s National School Food Program.

The program aims to provide meals to as many as 400,000 students across the country over five years, thanks to a $1 billion investment.

Field also acknowledged there are some really great grassroots programs happening in the community.

“But this is one of those things where the provincial government needs to be involved,” she said. “I know we are all looking at budget cuts and we are all looking at the complexities facing governments, but I can say for sure that I don’t think there is a single investment that is more important to the health and well-being of the future generation.”

According to a statement provided by the Ministry of Education, Saskatchewan Child Nutrition Program funding has provided healthy meals to Saskatchewan students for the past 36 years, with a budget of $2.8 million in 2026-27.

Incremental funding increases have grown the program budget by more than 21 per cent since 2017-18.

“The new federal program builds on the work being done through the Saskatchewan Child Nutrition Program. The three-year National School Food Program agreement between the Governments of Saskatchewan and Canada, signed in 2025, provides $15.8 million in federal funding over three years to support school division programs in expanding existing or developing new food programs,” the Ministry stated.

One example of the successful grassroots initiatives is the Feeding our Futures Program, which has run in Prince Albert for the past seven years and involves a partnership between Lake Country Co-op, Lakeland Ford, Lakeland Hyundai, Signature Group, Broda Group, and Conexus Credit Union.

These companies have collectively provided over 400,000 emergency lunches to the students of Prince Albert.

“Their contributions have not only filled empty stomachs but have also fostered a sense of support and unity within our Saskatchewan Rivers community,” the Saskatchewan Rivers School Board said in a statement on their website.

“The impact of this program goes beyond the meals served. It symbolizes the power of collaboration and community spirit.”

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell