April is recognized as National Child Nutrition Month, a time to highlight programs that support healthy eating and wellness for children and vulnerable populations.
The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) plays a vital role in providing nutritious meals and snacks that promote the health, growth, and development of young children, as well as the wellness of older adults and individuals with disabilities. Through this program, participating care centers, family day homes, afterschool programs, and emergency shelters receive reimbursement for serving meals that meet federal nutrition standards.
Administered at the federal level by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through its Food and Nutrition Service, CACFP operates through state partnerships. In Virginia, the program is managed by the Virginia Department of Health; in Maryland by the Maryland State Department of Education; and in Washington, DC by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education.
CACFP ensures that meals served follow USDA nutrition guidelines, emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and limiting added sugars—helping establish lifelong healthy eating habits. Participating organizations are reimbursed with federal funds and receive cash-in-lieu of USDA Foods to support meal service.
At The Planning Council, we are proud to support and monitor over 1,100 childcare sites across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC, serving approximately 11,000 children. Our work ensures compliance with USDA regulations while expanding access to nutritious meals that foster healthy development.
Planning Council staff are integral in setting up child care and adult care centers in the CACFP program. They make sure that these centers remain in compliance so the centers can continue to get the benefits from the CACFP.
To learn more about how The Planning Council supports childcare centers and the CACFP program, watch this video.
For over 40 years, the National CACFP Association has led national efforts in education, advocacy, and community-building for CACFP, strengthening resources and advancing policies that improve nutrition in care settings across the country.
Together, we remain committed to building healthier communities—one nutritious meal at a time.