The Child And Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is a vital initiative funded at both the state and federal levels. It falls under the umbrella of Child Nutrition Programs, with a core mission to ensure that nutritious meals and snacks are readily available to infants, children, and adults in various care settings. For those who participate as CACFP providers, the program offers reimbursement for the meals and snacks they serve, directly supporting their efforts to enhance the health and overall well-being of their participants. In California, the CACFP is administered by the CACFP Branch of the California Department of Social Services (CDSS).
Explore CACFP Program Topics
To navigate the specifics of the CACFP program, a range of resources and topics are readily available to guide you:
- About CACFP: Gain a foundational understanding of the program’s objectives, history, and overall structure.
- How To Apply: Step-by-step guidance for organizations and individuals looking to become CACFP providers.
- Resources: Access a comprehensive collection of materials, tools, and support documents to aid in program implementation and management.
- Fiscal & Reimbursements : Detailed information on program funding, reimbursement rates, and financial guidelines for providers.
- Meal Patterns: Learn about the specific nutritional requirements and meal patterns that must be followed to qualify for CACFP reimbursement.
- Training: Discover training opportunities and resources designed to equip providers with the knowledge and skills needed for successful program operation.
- Civil Rights & Complaints : Understand the program’s civil rights obligations and procedures for addressing complaints of discrimination.
- News, Events, & Webinars: Stay informed about the latest program updates, upcoming events, and informative webinars.
- Participants & Families : Resources specifically tailored for individuals and families who benefit from CACFP, ensuring they have access to program information.
- Administrative Review : Information for providers on the administrative review process to ensure program compliance and quality.
- Procurement: Guidance on procurement standards and best practices for CACFP providers when purchasing goods and services.
- COVID-19 Information: Access up-to-date information and guidance related to CACFP operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) strictly prohibits discrimination within any USDA program or activity based on race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. This commitment to non-discrimination is a cornerstone of the CACFP, ensuring equitable access and opportunity for all participants.
Program information is readily accessible in languages beyond English, and individuals with disabilities needing alternative communication methods (Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language) can contact the responsible state or local agency administering the program or the USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.
To formally file a program discrimination complaint, individuals should complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form AD-3027. This form is available online at https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf, at any USDA office, or by calling (866) 632-9992. Complaints can also be submitted via letter to USDA, including the complainant’s details and a description of the alleged discriminatory action. Submit completed forms or letters to USDA via:
- Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;
- Fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or
- Email: [email protected]
