Endangered species? Campaign starts to ‘save’ school canteens, tuckshops

School tuckshops are under threat. The Federation of Canteens in Schools (Focis) has called for a campaign to save canteens and tuckshops amid increasing financial strain and staff shortages.

Focis has urged canteen/tuckshop managers, government representatives, public health advocates, nutritionists, dietitians, researchers, education staff and volunteers to register their interest for a national roundtable on the issue.

The roundtable aims to develop sustainable, innovative strategies to ensure these services continue operating and thriving.

School canteens and tuckshops are a critical support system that offers nutritious food options to children, many of whom may not have reliable access to healthy meals at home,” said Focis chair Leanne Elliston.

“As food insecurity rises across Australia, the role of school canteens in promoting healthy eating habits and supporting children’s overall wellbeing has never been more crucial.”

Elliston said these businesses are facing “unprecedented challenges”, with rising operational costs making it difficult to keep prices affordable for families, even as demand from busy families grows. The volunteer-based model that has traditionally supported them is no longer sustainable, she added.

Elliston warns that many school canteens would be forced to close without immediate action and support.

According to the expert, the national roundtable will be a collaborative platform for key decision-makers to explore alternative business models, share innovative strategies, and advocate for increased support and funding.

“We must come together to save our school canteens. By collaborating, we can develop the solutions needed to ensure these services remain available to support our children’s health, education, and well-being,” Elliston stated.

Read the article here: Endangered species?: Campaign starts to ‘save’ school canteens, tuckshops – Inside FMCG