The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) plays a vital role in supporting the nutritional needs of children and adults in daycare settings across the United States, including New York State. Funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), CACFP is indeed an entitlement program, ensuring that states like New York receive consistent federal support to promote the health and well-being of their residents through proper nutrition in care environments. This commitment is evident in New York’s extensive participation, with over 1,250 sponsoring organizations and 11,250 care sites providing daily care for approximately 198,000 children and adults. In 2022 alone, New York State received over $192 million in federal USDA funds to operate and expand this crucial nutrition program.
Understanding CACFP as an Entitlement Program
Being an entitlement program signifies that CACFP funding is guaranteed by law to states that choose to participate and meet the program requirements. Unlike discretionary programs that depend on annual appropriations, entitlement programs like CACFP are a form of mandatory spending. This structure ensures a stable and reliable funding source, allowing New York State, through the Department of Health, to consistently support and enhance the nutritional quality of meals and snacks served in various care settings. This stability is crucial for the long-term planning and operation of child care centers, adult day care centers, and other participating institutions.
Who Benefits from the CACFP Entitlement?
The CACFP entitlement program extends its benefits to a diverse range of sponsors and participants across New York. These include:
- Child Care Centers: Encompassing Head Start programs and after-school initiatives that serve children up to 12 years old.
- Home-Based Child Care: Including family and group child care settings, even legally exempt providers who care for subsidized children.
- Adult Day Care Centers: Community-based centers approved by authorities to provide care for adults with disabilities.
- After School Programs: Programs offering educational or enrichment activities for children up to 19 years of age.
- Homeless Shelters: Providing meals to children residing with parents or guardians in shelters.
The level of support provided through CACFP, whether for free or reduced-price meals, is determined by household income, ensuring that assistance is directed to those who need it most.
Income Eligibility Guidelines for CACFP Support
The following income guidelines are used to determine eligibility for free and reduced-price meals under the CACFP program. These guidelines are updated annually and are effective from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.
| Household Size | FREE MEALS | REDUCED MEALS |
|---|---|---|
| Year | Month | |
| 1 | $19,578 | $1,632 |
| 2 | $26,572 | $2,215 |
| 3 | $33,566 | $2,798 |
| 4 | $40,560 | $3,380 |
| 5 | $47,554 | $3,963 |
| 6 | $54,548 | $4,546 |
| 7 | $61,542 | $5,129 |
| 8 | $68,536 | $5,712 |
| For each additional family member | $6,994 | $583 |
These income eligibility guidelines help categorize household income to determine if participants qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Centers receive reimbursement at different rates based on these categories.
Accessing Further Information about CACFP
For more detailed information regarding the Child and Adult Care Food Program in New York State, individuals and organizations can reach out to the New York State Department of Health directly. They can be contacted at 1-800-942-3858 or (518) 402-7400. This resource is available to provide guidance and support for those interested in participating in or learning more about this essential entitlement program.
