Greece expands school meals program to 1,982 schools for 2026-2027

A Joint Ministerial Decision has been published in the Government Gazette outlining the implementation of the ‘School Meals’ program for the 2026–2027 school year across Greece. The program will be extended to 1,982 primary schools and special education units nationwide.

The initiative aims to meet student nutritional needs, support the educational process, foster social solidarity, and prevent school dropout by promoting healthy Mediterranean dietary principles. The program involves the preparation, packaging, and distribution of hot meals.

The total projected expenditure for the program is €122,915,878.80, distributed over two fiscal years: €45,121,018.80 for 2026 and €77,794,860 for 2027. Funding is provided by the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family through the Organization for Provision of Allowances and Social Solidarity (OPΕΚΑ).

Regional participation includes 68 schools in Larissa, 17 schools in Phthiotis, nine schools in Zakynthos, and various units across Central Greece, including Boeotia and Evia.