Rio de Janeiro expands low‑cost breakfast program and links zero‑fare transport to food security

The Rio de Janeiro state government has broadened the "Café do Trabalhador" initiative, which provides a breakfast kit—including bread, butter, coffee and a fruit—for R$ 0.50. Managed by the Superintendência de Segurança Alimentar e Nutricional under the Secretaria de Estado de Desenvolvimento Social e Direitos Humanos, the program operates from 5 a.m. on weekdays at high‑traffic sites such as train stations and bus terminals. Each unit distributes about 250 kits daily and the network now covers more than 40 municipalities, with several locations in the Baixada Fluminense region (Nova Iguaçu, Duque de Caxias, Queimados, São João de Meriti).

A separate study coordinated by the Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ) examined the effects of zero‑fare public transport on food security and health. Reviewing 194 articles, the research found that eliminating bus fares can free up roughly 20 % of low‑ and middle‑income families' income, allowing money to be redirected toward basic needs such as food, health services, and reduced financial stress. The study, conducted with the Ministry of Health, PAHO and other partners, reports improvements in dietary access, health outcomes, and overall well‑being linked to the fare‑free policy.