Q: Who can participate in CACFP?

A: You must be licensed or registered by the State of New York as a Family or Group Family Day Care Home, or be enrolled with the local Department of Social Services to provide legally exempt care. You must be approved by a Sponsor (CACCC) in order to receive money from CACFP.

Q: Why should I sign up in CACFP?

A: CACFP will pay you for the meals and snacks that you provide to children enrolled in your child care program. CACCC, as your sponsoring agency, will provide training and support in nutrition, feeding children, and buying and cooking food. Also you can let parents know that you provide healthy foods that meet CACFP guidelines.

Q: I’m interested in CACFP, how do I find out more?

A: Call the Cortland Area Child Care Council at (607) 753-0106 and talk to the Food Program Staff.

Q: Do I receive food or money when I participate in CACFP?

A: Each month you will receive a check from CACCC for the meals and snacks that you provide to the children in your day care home.

Q: What records do I need to keep?

A: You must collect enrollment information on each child in your day care home. Also, you need to complete an attendance sheet and count the meals served every day. This information, along with your menus, must be given to CACCC each month.

Q: Can I claim my own children in CACFP?

A: Your own children may be claimed if your household meets the income requirements.

Q: What are the requirements for the meals I serve to children in my day care?

A: The meals served in your day care home will include fluid milk, fruits, vegetables, bread or bread alternates, and meat or meat alternates. CACCC will provide instruction on what meals are creditable.

Q: Can infant meals be counted in CACFP?

A: All children in your care must be offered a CACFP approved meal. Children under one year old have different nutrition requirements and must be recorded on separate menus. Parents may choose to provide all or part of the infant meal themselves.