Program updates & releases.
CACFP 01-2027: New Institutions’ Participation in the Child and Adult Care Food Program
This memorandum highlights the importance of utilizing standardized checklists, proactive communication to resolve red flags, and detailed documentation throughout the review and decision-making process. It outlines a clear sequence of actions designed to ensure only institutions that fully meet statutory and regulatory requirements enter the program. By following these recommended procedures, state agencies help uphold public confidence, prevent fraud and waste, and safeguard the integrity and accountability that underpin the mission of USDA’s nutrition assistance programs.
CACFP 03-2027: Identifying False Claims and Potential Fraud in the Child and Adult Care Food Program
As stewards of federal program funds, state agencies must remain vigilant in identifying unusual claiming patterns, errors, or practices that could indicate potential fraud. This memorandum provides guidance to help state agencies recognize common red flags, take timely corrective action, and ensure that program operations remain compliant, transparent, and protective of taxpayer resources.
CACFP 02-2027: Recordkeeping Requirements in the Child and Adult Care Food Program
This memorandum highlights the importance of enforcing recordkeeping systems, clarifying required documentation, and strengthening state agencies’ oversight tools to prevent improper payments, reduce fraud and waste, and uphold public confidence in the program.
Simplified Geographic Preference Procurement in Child Nutrition Programs
We published the direct final rule with comment period, Simplified Geographic Preference Procurement in Child Nutrition Programs (91 FR 57245), effective Nov. 9, 2026.
Letter from Secretary Rollins - Child Nutrition Programs
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins writes to remind schools, sponsors, and institutions participating in any USDA Child Nutrition Program, including the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, Special Milk Program for Children, Child and Adult Care Food Program, Summer Food Service Program, and the Seamless Summer Option, of the many ways they can purchase local foods to serve in program meals.