According to AC.com there is an anticipated delay of around 3h give or take.
So pax anticipating the meal service for their evening meal would have faced an uncomfortable delay.
$12-$15 is easily enough for a quick bite in the terminal to stave off any discomfort. The meal service will still be there on the flight. The offer seemed to have been made while the delay was still in progress. And people in the lounge who could have been snacking anyway were informed of the consideration on offer.
This is in contrast to what people seem to hate most about airlines in delays: lack of information, communication, looking after the customer in a proactive way.
Sorry, my balls are not feeling overly kicked about this.
If the flight goes on delayed for nine hours and AC agents are spotted snickering and flipping the bird at people I will be happy to re-evaluate my balls at that time.