What CACFP funds
CACFP reimburses participating providers for up to two meals and one snack per child per day, or three meals if the child is in care for 8+ hours. Meals must meet age-appropriate nutrition standards. Reimbursement rates depend on whether the child qualifies for free, reduced, or paid meal categories — the same income tiers used for school meals. For family daycare home providers, rates are based on the income demographics of the surrounding area.
Who benefits
Roughly 4 million children receive a meal through CACFP every day. Adults at adult daycare centers — typically people with cognitive impairment, physical disabilities, or older adults whose caregivers work — also benefit. Emergency homeless shelters can use CACFP to serve meals to children in residence.
How parents access this
Parents do not apply directly for CACFP. Instead, ask your child's daycare provider whether they participate. If your provider does not, encourage them to enroll — administrative support is provided by 'sponsors,' usually a non-profit umbrella organization that handles paperwork in exchange for a small admin fee.
Where to go from here
If this program looks like a fit for your household, take 10 minutes today to start an application or call your local agency. Even if you are unsure whether you qualify, the application is the easiest way to find out — there is no penalty for applying and being denied. If you need food while you wait for a decision, browse the pantry directory for a site near you, or read our same-day help guide.