Farm to CACFP: Policy, Funding and Resources

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) provides reimbursement for over 3 million nutritious meals to children every day in child care centers and homes, including Head Start.  Nationally, there is a growing interest in incorporating local foods and introducing agriculture-based curriculum in early education and care settings. 

The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act (HHFKA) of 2010 amended the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to expand the purpose of the CACFP to  provide reimbursement for nutritious foods that contribute to the wellness, healthy growth and development of young children.  The incorporation of local food and agricultural education into the CACFP ensures this newly emphasized importance of creating a healthy environment is promoted.   These types of activities in early childcare is a great way to introduce young children to where their food comes from, and help them to develop lifelong healthy eating habits.

This presentation provides information about USDA’s policies regarding incorporating local food into the CACFP and will include information about preschool gardens and relevant models from around the nation.  The session will also cover strategies for purchasing local foods within the Federal regulations and resources for finding appropriate agricultural-based curriculum.  Additionally, resources for planning, funding and locating potential collaborators will be discussed.