More town halls want to extend the "Warm Lunch" scheme under the "Food and Basic Material Assistance" programme, which is also funded by the European Social Fund Plus. In just two weeks, the body that manages the programme received 50 requests from municipalities and district offices to amend their contracts.
The programme's managing authority says these amendment agreements must be signed by 31 July 2026 at the latest.
The extension became possible after officials freed up extra funds, which let the support carry on. From 1 August 2026, the price of a warm lunch will rise to 2.10 euros (4.11 levs), VAT included.
Thanks to the extra money, close to 67,000 people in need will keep getting a free hot meal. The scheme's budget and deadline have been pushed back to 16 July 2027, so support for the most vulnerable won't be interrupted.
Besides warm meals, the programme also gives people access to social services, welfare support, jobs and training. The aim is to help people from vulnerable groups live better and feel more part of society.