(WAND) - The Illinois State Board of Education announced Tuesday that Child and Adult Care Food Program sponsors across Illinois served more than 85.6 million meals and snacks to children in fiscal year 2024.
The federal program, administered by ISBE and funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, helps make sure kids in participating childcare centers, day care homes, after-school programs, and emergency shelters receive healthy meals at no extra cost.
Oct. 1 marks the start of the period when CAFCP sponsors renew their applications to continue operating the program for the coming year.
The FY 2025 Income Eligibility Guidelines, updated annually by the USDA, determine eligibility for reimbursements that support nutritious meals and snacks. Parents and guardians are encouraged to check with their childcare providers to see if they participate in CACFP.
“Good nutrition is the foundation for healthy growth and child development,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. “The Child and Adult Care Food Program ensures that children across Illinois, regardless of their family's financial situation, have access to the nourishment they need. We’re grateful to the dedicated child care centers and organizations that make this program possible and help build a healthier future for our state’s youngest learners.”
There are currently about 750 CACFP sponsors across Illinois. Program sponsors use a direct certification process and applications to determine eligibility and reimbursement data.
Families may be asked to provide income, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program information.
For information about becoming a new applicant to operate the program, visit the ISBE Nutrition Department’s New Applicants webpage.
“The CACFP reimbursement allows us to afford to purchase the healthiest and most nutritious foods available in our area. Without the extra financial support, we would find that very difficult,” said Cydney Walter, the director of the Purple Puppy Nursery School Inc., a childcare center and CACFP sponsor in Auburn. “The nutrition requirements demand that low-sugar and low-fat products be used. All of this, including the financial support and high nutrition standards, assures that the children attending are served healthy meals.”
CACFP also provides meals for youth in after-school programs and children living in emergency shelters. It also offers reimbursements for meals served to adults aged 60 and older, or adults living with disabilities, enrolled in day care programs. The Illinois Department of Aging administers this portion of the program.
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