Nova Scotia Sisters Revolutionize School Lunch Programs Across Canada

Toronto, ON— Amid a growing nationwide concern over food security for children, a Nova Scotia-based company is breaking new ground with its innovative approach to school lunch programs. Food For Thought Software Solutions, founded by sisters Melissa and Shandra MacMaster, is using technology to ensure no child is left without a healthy meal.

The company was born out of the COVID-19 pandemic when school closures disrupted access to reliable meals for many students. While working on Nova Scotia’s COVID-19 food initiative pilot project, the MacMasters witnessed the logistical challenges of distributing food on a large scale. Determined to make a difference, they launched Food For Thought, a software platform designed to streamline and improve school lunch programs.

Since its debut, the platform has gained widespread acclaim for its impact. Within six months of launching, Food For Thought supported two significant government programs—Nova Scotia’s School Lunch Relief Program and Prince Edward Island’s Healthy School Food Program. To date, over 1 million meals have been ordered through the platform, demonstrating its ability to address food insecurity in schools effectively.

What sets Food For Thought apart is its innovative “pay-what-you-can” model. This approach allows parents to pre-order meals for their children without stigma, ensuring that every student has access to nutritious food, regardless of their financial situation. “At Food For Thought, our mission is to eliminate food insecurity in schools and create a stigma-free environment where all children can thrive,” said Melissa MacMaster, Co-Founder and CEO.

By providing an all-in-one platform that connects parents, schools, and governments, Food For Thought is fostering inclusion at the lunch table while addressing the critical issue of child hunger. The platform’s seamless integration with school systems has made it a vital tool for provincial governments and school boards across Canada.

As the demand for sustainable food security solutions continues to rise, Food For Thought Software Solutions is leading the way. By merging technology with social impact, the MacMasters are setting a new standard for tackling food insecurity and creating a brighter future for Canada’s children.

For more information on Food For Thought Software Solutions, visit www.food-for-thought.ca or follow them on Instagram at @fftsolutions.