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The Power of the Food Program: Head Start

Acelero Learning Monmouth Middlesex (Acelero) operates eight Head Start centers that serve meals to over 800 children through the CACFP. Food Service Coordinator, Stephanie Manchester, and her team work to ensure that they are providing nutritious meals for all of the children across their eight sites.

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Unplug and Play

Summer is nearly here, and the school year is winding down. The temptation to swap class time for screen time is strong, but it’s not what children need most. That’s why our partners at Read Aloud 15 Minutes have created summer materials designed to spark creativity and encourage physical activity without relying on screens.

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Provider Appreciation Day

Tomorrow, May 9th, is Provider Appreciation Day! We’ve all heard the phrase “not all superheroes wear capes,” and not to be cheesy, but in this case it is true. Instead of a cape, you may wear an apron, a monitor’s hat, a power of the food program sticker, or an advocate badge. e want you to be supported for the tireless work you do to ensure your community is food and nutrition secure.

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Legumes: Beans, Peas, and Lentils

Did you know a simple bag of beans could be the key to powering up your CACFP menus? Legumes like beans, peas, and lentils are versatile, affordable superfoods. Regularly consuming legumes may help reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Including them as part of your menu can positively impact the health of the children in your care.

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May Virtual Events

Get a rundown on all things happening in May at NCA. Annual Training is happening this month. Don’t miss out!

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Quarterly Policy Update: April 2025

The start of 2025 has come with many changes as a new administration has taken office and a new Congress has began. So far in 2025, two important CACFP bills have been re-introduced, CACFP Week was recognized nationwide, and a USDA request for information was completed.

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Science in Everyday Moments

Young children are curious about the world around them. Through the everyday moments you already share, you’re helping your child learn like a scientist. Our partners at Vroom have some brain builders to help you turn nature into a classroom!

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Two Critical CACFP Bills Re-Introduced in Congress

Today, April 10th, two important CACFP bills were re-introduced in Congress. The Child Care Nutrition Enhancement Act and Early Childhood Nutrition Improvement work together to provide much-needed improvements for the CACFP and address challenges faced by CACFP operators.

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