Posts Tagged ‘child care’
Sponsoring Organizations: Key Players in Ensuring Federal Program Integrity
The CACFP is administered as a public-private partnership between the USDA, State agencies and sponsoring organizations to ensure nutritious meals and snacks are served to children and adults in care. Learn more about the role of the sponsoring organization in maintaining federal program integrity.
Read MoreIncorporating Local Beef Into CNP Meals
USDA released a memo outlining opportunities within current CACFP and SFSP regulations for operators to procure and use local beef in their creditable meals. The release of the memo is in response to the 2025-2030 DGA recommendation to prioritize protein foods. The memo does not make any changes to current requirements of the CACFP and SFSP; it simply outlines resources to help operators source and serve local beef.
Read MoreCACFP Early Intervention for Obesity Prevention Among U.S. Children
The CACFP is one of the earliest points of intervention for obesity prevention for young children. The high-quality nutrition provided by the CACFP has been proven to improve diet-quality and reduce the risk of obesity.
Read MorePower Up with Protein
Protein is a key part of a healthy diet. It helps children grow strong by building muscles, repairing tissues, supporting the immune system, and giving the body energy. Our partners at the Institute of Child Nutrition define protein, highlight its importance, and provide common food sources.
Read MoreDietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030 – Eat Real Food
USDA released a memo outlining some of the key updates included in the 2020-2030 DGAs. While USDA emphasizes that CACFP and SFSP operators familiarize themselves with the recommendations, there are no immediate changes to program requirements. Operators must continue to follow current CACFP and SFSP meal pattern requirements
Read MoreHeart of the CACFP Spotlight Nominations
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we’re thinking a lot about love. This month, we want to shine a little extra light on the people who pour their hearts into the CACFP each and every day. Help us honor these dedicated individuals by nominating someone who deserves recognition for their exceptional impact.
Read MoreQuarterly Policy Update: January 2026
In the last three months, multiple updates have been issued by USDA and Congress. In early January, we saw the release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, as well as the passing of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act into law. In addition, USDA has approved off-site monitoring waivers for State agencies, released the 2026 SFSP reimbursement rates and rural designation map, and hosted a webinar on serious deficiency in the CACFP. NCA has also developed new resources on CACFP program integrity to support our community. Keep reading to see what you’ve missed and stay up to date with CACFP policy!
Read MoreHere for Each Other
As we just experienced our first snowstorm of the winter, it’s important that we help little ones feel safe and calm at home during severe winter storms. Our partners at Sesame Street in Communities have resources to help families and caregiver comfort and support kids during emergencies and tips to stay safe.
Read MoreSupport a CACFP Week Proclamation in Your State
National CACFP Week will be here before you know it! This year March 15-21 marks this national education campaign designed to raise awareness of the CACFP and its contribution to combating hunger. Ask Your Governor to Proclaim March 15-21, 2026, as National CACFP Week!
Read MoreFueling Young Minds
Every day, you do more than care for children—you help them grow strong and healthy. One of the best ways to support this growth is by serving nutritious meals and snacks. Our partners at ICN explore how healthy eating supports brain development, learning, and lifelong habits.
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