Free meals not only for primary school students: who else is entitled to support in schools

Children of war have become one of the most vulnerable groups in today’s Ukraine. Having experienced the horrors of shelling, the loss of loved ones, forced migration or living in constant danger, these children often need more than just material assistance. Psychological support, attention and basic needs are only part of what is needed. An important step in this direction is the provision of free meals in schools, which can guarantee regular access to balanced food for those who need it most. In response to this challenge, the Government of Ukraine decided to restore free meals for primary school children, but did not limit itself to this, covering other vulnerable groups as well.

State support for primary school students

According to the government’s resolution, free meals will be provided in schools for pupils in grades 1-4 by the end of 2024, with UAH 2 billion allocated from the state budget. This decision will allow children in primary school, regardless of their social status or level of financial security, to receive free meals. According to the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, the bulk of the costs will be covered by the state subvention, while local budgets will contribute to the rest of the costs. This approach will help to ensure that schoolchildren are properly fed, even in remote regions and smaller settlements.

Why it is important

The return of free meals is an important step in supporting children’s physical health, especially as the war has brought economic hardship to many families, limiting their ability to provide children with a balanced diet. Malnutrition can have a serious impact on learning, development, and a child’s ability to concentrate and participate in school. In addition, free meals provide psychological support, as children who do not have access to daily meals at home receive them at school, which takes some of the pressure off their parents.

Expanded circle of free meals recipients

In addition to pupils in grades 1-4, other vulnerable categories of children are also entitled to free meals. This decision shows the government’s understanding that there are even more children who need additional support in these difficult times. These include:

• Orphans and children deprived of parental care. Thesechildren find themselves in difficult life circumstances, often without a family to take care of them. According to Ukrainian law, orphans and children without parental care are subject to state guardianship, which includes the right to free meals in schools.
• Children with special educational needs. Students enrolled in special or inclusive classes require an adapted approach to education and care. This category of children, often due to health conditions or disabilities, cannot always attend regular school classes and need additional support in the form of nutrition. These children may have specific nutritional needs, and schools strive to provide them with appropriate facilities.
• Children who became disabled as a result of the Chornobyl disaster. Ukraine continues to bear responsibility to the generation affected by the consequences of the Chornobyl accident. The state grants these children a special status and provides support, in particular through the possibility of free meals at schools. This is a step towards ensuring justice for those affected by the Chornobyl disaster.
• Children of deceased law enforcement officers. The benefit for this category of children is not only a moral obligation of society, but also a real help to families who have lost a loved one. This approach demonstrates the state’s attention to people who protect society and their families, helping children to access proper nutrition even in difficult life circumstances.

The importance of support and social responsibility

The introduction of free school meals for certain categories of children plays an important role in building a socially responsible society that supports those who need it most. For many families, it is also an opportunity to save money on their child’s basic needs. The initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to support vulnerable groups, helping to improve the quality of life and health of children, especially those who are socially and financially vulnerable in these difficult times.