Mayor celebrates 100 million free school meals

Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan announced that the free school meals program has successfully distributed 100 million lunches to state primary school children. Launched in 2023, the initiative addresses the financial strains families face due to rising living costs, saving parents up to £500 annually per child. Khan emphasized the significance of these meals in ensuring children are healthy and prepared to learn, drawing from his personal experiences with food insecurity. Initially funded through temporary business rates income, the scheme has been extended beyond its original timeframe. The mayor's funding specifically covers meals for children in Years 3-6, while free lunches for younger students are provided under a central government program.

Earlier this year, the government announced plans to extend free school meals to all children whose parents receive Universal Credit by September 2026, reinforcing the importance of nutritional support for families. The program has garnered significant community support and highlights the ongoing challenges related to child poverty and food access in London. Khan's commitment to funding the scheme throughout his term reflects a broader effort to address these critical issues.