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CACFP Regulations & Guidance

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Best Practices for Streamlining Applications for Year-Round Program Operations

June 12, 2023

This memorandum provides best practices for establishing a single application process for experienced program operators providing year-round meal services to at-risk children in low-income areas. This memorandum applies to State administering agencies and local organizations operating both the Summer Food Service and Child and Adult Care Food Programs.

Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) Transition

May 26, 2023

In April 2022 Federal agencies transitioned from use of the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number to the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Child Nutrition Program Operators are required to have the UEI to receive payments from State agencies who administer the Child Nutrition programs on behalf of the Federal government. This memorandum provides answers to questions related to the transition.

On-site/Off-site Monitoring Guidance (CACFP)

April 6, 2023

USDA has released guidance on when states have discretion to conduct monitoring off-site and what monitoring procedures are recommended. However, all three monitoring visits must still be conducted on-site.

Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Reallocation of State Administrative Expense (SAE) Funds in Child Nutrition Programs

February 17, 2023

USDA released guidance to provide the information needed to conduct the FY 2023 reallocation of State Administrative Expense (SAE) funds. Reallocation is a formal process by which State agencies can: (1) request additional SAE funds above their initial authorized funding level; or (2) return SAE funds they do not need. All State agencies must submit an SAE Funds Reallocation Report (FNS-525) to their respective USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) Regional office by March 20, 2023, even if the State agency is neither requesting nor returning funds.

Reimbursement for Meals and Snacks Served at Child and Adult Care Food Program Emergency Shelters after the Public Health Emergency Ends

February 15, 2023

During the pandemic, emergency shelters participating in the CACFP were temporarily allowed to claim reimbursement for meals and snacks served to individuals under the age of 25. The Food and Nutrition Service announced that these temporary authorized reimbursements are expected to end on May 11, 2023, concurrent with the expiration of the COVID-19 public health emergency.