Bestensee: Adjustment of Meal Allowance in Kindergartens and Primary Schools from July 2026

Background: Why is the meal allowance being recalculated?

Providing children with balanced lunches in kindergartens and primary schools has long been a fixed part of municipal childcare services in Bestensee. At the same time, however, the costs for personnel, food, and catering services are rising. The new minimum wage and the associated adjustments in the catering sector are forcing the municipality to regulate the funding of lunch anew.

The municipal council has therefore adopted the 2nd Amendment to the Kindergarten Ordinance, which primarily redefines the cost distribution between parents and the municipality. The focus is on adjusting the meal allowance, which parents must contribute for their children's lunch.

Concrete Adjustments: What is changing?

Monthly lump sum and daily rate

From 01.07.2026, the parental share of the lunch cost will be set as a monthly lump sum of 36.50 €. This amount corresponds to a daily rate of 2.19 € per portion, representing an increase of 0.09 € compared to the current regulation. The lump sum is valid for 12 months and is due by the 10th of each month.

In addition, the municipal subsidy per portion is fixed at 1.22 €, ensuring that the municipality continues to bear a significant share of the funding.

Acclimatization period and guest children

In the first weeks after a child's admission to a kindergarten or primary school, a reduced lunch subsidy applies. During the acclimatization period, only 50% of the meal allowance is charged. This is intended to relieve parents and make the transition easier for the children.

For guest children, i.e., children who are temporarily cared for in an institution, the monthly lunch subsidy remains at 36.50 €. This regulation ensures clarity and transparency, even with flexible childcare planning.

Support for families in need

Parents in households with financial needs can still apply for a subsidy for the meal allowance. This model helps to remove financial barriers and create equal childcare conditions for all families in Bestensee.

Impacts on kindergartens, primary schools, and families

Parents' financial responsibility increases slightly

The increase in the parental share by 0.09 € per day means an additional annual burden of about 84 € for a family with two children. At the same time, the municipality remains strongly involved financially, significantly reducing the pressure on families.

Transparency and predictability

The introduction of a monthly lump sum instead of a daily contribution increases predictability for parents. This is particularly beneficial in times of uncertain income development.

Minimum wage and catering as reasons for adjustment

The municipality explicitly confirms that the changes to the ordinance are a reaction to cost increases due to the minimum wage. Caterers must pay higher wages, which directly affects the prices per portion. The municipality shares this increase through an additional subsidy of 1.22 € per portion, helping caterers financially.

Conclusion: A step toward sustainable childcare

The adjustment of the meal allowance in Bestensee is a clever compromise between financial sustainability and social balance. The municipality remains committed to supporting financially weaker families without compromising the quality of the lunch service.

With the clear regulation of the monthly lump sum, support for families in need, and adaptation to rising wage costs, Bestensee demonstrates how childcare and school meals can be designed in a socially acceptable and financially viable manner, even in economically challenging times.