School food programs

According to Statistics Canada, nearly one in four New Brunswick children arrive at school hungry every day.

By giving students access to nutritious, affordable options at school, we are giving them one of the essential tools they need to learn and thrive, while also making life more affordable for New Brunswick families. When all students have access to healthy meals, it will result in increased student engagement. We work with community partners, including food service providers and community organizations, who are helping us deliver on our commitment to ensure all children in New Brunswick have access to healthy food at school through various programs.

Starting in September 2026, all students will have access to healthy lunch options at public schools through a New Brunswick pay-what-you-can model. 

Using this model where everyone pays the same fee helps with affordability and fosters greater social equality where a student is not defined by their family’s socio-economic status.  

Cost

The cost of meals will be shared between families and the government. Those who can afford to pay: 

• $4 per meal (for students in kindergarten-to-Grade 8)  
• $5 per meal (for high school students)  

will have the option to contribute to help offset the cost for a student in need. Those who cannot afford the meal cost will receive a 100% subsidy

Eligibility

Schools will be sending all families information packages specific to their lunch programs. This will contain instructions on who to contact if they cannot afford the cost. 

Ordering and payment process

School specific information including service provider, menu options, and how to order will be sent to families by schools. 

The ordering and payment process supports accurate meal planning, reduces food waste, and provides a seamless, consistent experience for all students, including those receiving the 100% subsidy.  

All meals provided by the school food program will comply with Policy 711: Healthier School Food Environment (PDF 43 KB) and a vegetarian option will be available. This will replace any hot-lunch programs currently offered in schools. The program will place a strong emphasis on quality, nutrition, and local procurement. 

When a student’s basic needs are met, such as having a healthy meal to start the day, they can better focus on learning and being engaged in the classroom environment. 

The partnership between Feed NB and the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development provides students in all schools throughout the province with access to healthy foods. The funding goes towards providing foods such as: 

• milk and other dairy products 
• eggs 
• fruits and vegetables 
• cereals and grains 
• condiments 

This is part of more than $11 million in funding from the federal government through the National School Food Program, alongside our province’s continued $2 million annual investment in the breakfast program.