At Matthew McNair Secondary, we believe that school is more than just a place to learn—it’s a community where every student should feel they belong. That’s why we’re excited to create a Universal Hot Lunch Program, a pilot initiative through the National Food Program and Feeding Futures that provides a lucnh every student at McNair.

Why This Matters

Sharing a meal is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to bring people together. When students sit down for a hot lunch, they’re not just eating—they’re connecting. These moments create opportunities for friendships to grow, for conversations to happen, and for students to feel included in the life of the school.

Food can break down barriers. It ensures that every student, regardless of background, has access to the same experience—a warm, nourishing meal in a welcoming space. This program helps us foster equity and inclusion, reinforcing the message that everyone belongs here.

Creating a Sense of Belonging

School can feel overwhelming at times, but programs like this remind us that we’re all part of something bigger. A shared meal is a simple gesture that says:
You matter. You belong. We care.

Our goal is to provide the lunch to students 5 times throughout the year. We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our students and school culture.