Sicily launches €10 million school meals and voucher programme

The Sicily regional government announced a €10 million plan to expand school canteens and introduce meal vouchers. The programme has three components:

1. A three‑year school‑building scheme (2026‑2028) that funds the construction or renovation of canteen rooms, offering up to €50,000 for facilities up to 100 seats, €100,000 for 100‑200 seats, and €200,000 for larger or tensile‑structure projects. 2. An additional grant of up to €20,000 for elementary and middle schools that already provide a catering service, supplementing municipal funding. 3. The first‑time issuance of €7 meal vouchers for secondary‑school students who request them.

The regional Education and Professional Training Department will manage applications, which must be submitted by 8 July via certified email. Officials say the measures aim to extend full‑time schooling, reduce student dropout, and help families balance work and school responsibilities.