CACFP Learning Packet

Introduction

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). It provides reimbursement for nutritious meals and snacks served in eligible child and adult care settings, including daycares such as YNPF. The primary goal is to ensure that children and adults in care environments receive balanced, nutritious meals that support growth, wellness, and healthy development. (Sources: USDA

Program Eligibility

Eligible organizations include childcare centers, family day care homes, emergency shelters, at-risk afterschool programs, and adult day care centers. To qualify, centers must be licensed or approved to provide nonresidential day care services. Meals must meet USDA nutrition standards, and participating organizations receive reimbursement for compliant meals served. (Sources: USDA)

Nutrition Standards & Meal Patterns

CACFP meal patterns emphasize vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and limited added sugars. These meal requirements help introduce children to a diverse range of healthy foods, building lifelong healthy eating habits. Centers must follow age-specific nutrition guidelines to ensure developmentally appropriate meals. (Source: Maryland Public Schools

Program Benefits

Participation in CACFP supports the well-being of children by ensuring access to balanced meals and reducing food insecurity. It also enhances the quality of care by promoting good nutrition education, developing positive eating habits, and helping families afford nutritious meals for their children.

How YNPF Implements CACFP

Childcare centers can align with CACFP by:

• Following USDA meal patterns and offering balanced, nutritious foods.
• Maintaining accurate meal service and attendance records.
• Teaching children good eating habits through daily engagement and structured mealtimes.
• Participating in training opportunities provided by state agencies to stay updated on regulations and best practices.

State agencies provide technical assistance, training modules, and oversight for effective CACFP participation.

Recordkeeping & Compliance

Centers must document meal counts, attendance, menus, training completion, procurement records, and income eligibility (when required). Accurate records ensure continued compliance and reimbursement. Training modules and guidance documents from state agencies support centers in meeting accountability requirements.

Conclusion

The CACFP plays a vital role in ensuring children receive nutritious meals daily. By following USDA guidelines, maintaining proper records, and engaging in training, YNPF staff can successfully implement CACFP and support children’s health and development.

CACFP USDA Fact Sheet Summary

The USDA CACFP Fact Sheet provides an overview of program administration, participation eligibility, reimbursement structure, and key statistics. It explains that CACFP supports child and adult care institutions by reimbursing nutritious meals for young children, at-risk youth, and chronically impaired adults. It further outlines that USDA FNS administers CACFP through state-level agencies and provides reimbursement for up to two meals and one snack per day when meeting Federal nutritional guidelines. Eligibility covers infants and children through age 12 in most settings and up to age 18 in afterschool or emergency shelter programs; adults aged 60+ or with disabilities may also participate.

Interested in Participating in CACFP?