From September 2025, all Ukrainian schoolchildren will receive free meals

Free Meals for Students in Ukraine

According to Кабмін: Starting from September 2024, students in grades 1-11 in Ukraine will receive free meals. The government has already allocated funds for the implementation of the program aimed at providing meals for schoolchildren across the country. For the first phase of the program, UAH 5.9 billion has been allocated in subsidies to communities.

From the beginning of 2025, free meals will be available for students in grades 1-4, while from September 2025, hot lunches will begin to be provided to students in grades 1-11 in frontline communities. The state budget for 2026 includes UAH 14.4 billion for this program.

“Today, almost UAH 5.9 billion in subsidies have been directed to communities for the implementation of the first phase of the program to ensure meals for schoolchildren in 2026”

Yulia Svyrydenko, Minister of Economy

Implementing free meals for schoolchildren is an important step towards improving learning conditions in Ukraine. This program will not only provide children with necessary nutrition but may also positively impact their academic performance. The project's implementation, especially in frontline communities, aims to support children in challenging conditions and provide them with physical and psychological stability during their education.

“Our priority is to create conditions for safe and comfortable learning for every Ukrainian child, regardless of their place of residence or format of education”

Yulia Svyrydenko, Minister of Economy