School nutrition and feeding program challenges

School feeding and milk programs in Argentina and the Dominican Republic are facing logistical and economic difficulties.

In Argentina, the Federation of School Cooperatives of Santa Fe reported that inflation is straining provincial subsidies, making it difficult to maintain diverse menus as the cost of milk consumes most of the budget. Representatives noted an increase in demand for these services and reported that some students are arriving at school with hunger-related ailments.

In the Dominican Republic, approximately 20 educational centers in the Santiago province have rejected pasteurized milk intended for school breakfasts. Officials from the National Institute of Student Welfare (Inabie) stated that these schools lack the refrigeration required for pasteurized products. While suppliers have offered refrigeration equipment, officials are working with school directors to find a permanent solution. The issue is concentrated in San José de las Matas, Santiago Este, and Santiago Oeste, though school lunches have not been impacted.