Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)

About This Program

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) reimburses licensed child care centers, family daycare homes, afterschool programs, and adult day care facilities for serving nutritious meals and snacks to enrolled participants. Children who are income-eligible receive meals at no charge; adult day care participants who are low-income or nutritionally at risk also receive free meals. The program is distinct from the school meal programs — it operates through care settings rather than traditional schools. For families using child care, CACFP means the meals and snacks their child receives during the care day meet USDA nutritional standards without additional cost. Many family daycare homes that serve low-income children participate in CACFP, and participation is a meaningful indicator of a provider's commitment to nutrition standards. When choosing a child care provider, asking whether they participate in CACFP can help identify providers with stronger nutrition practices. For adults with disabilities or older adults in day care settings, CACFP provides meals that may represent a significant portion of daily nutritional intake. Adult day care programs that receive CACFP reimbursement must serve at-risk adults — those who are nutrition-impaired, socially isolated, or have functional limitations — and must document eligibility. Families do not apply separately for CACFP — participation is determined by the child care or adult care facility based on family income. If you enroll in a CACFP-participating program and provide income documentation during enrollment, eligible family members receive meals at no cost as part of the care program.

Eligibility Requirements

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