Feel free to contact us at our toll-free number . . . The Program Helps children by helping day care providers cut the cost of serving healthy, nutritious meals. The primary goal of the Food Program is to improve the diets of children. In order to receive cash reimbursements, child care providers must serve well balanced meals and snacks which comply with USDA nutritional requirements. The program's menus and food guidelines also introduce young children to many different types of food and help teach them good eating habits.
Studies show that good nutritional habits start early in life.
Even a child who comes from a good, healthy home may not be learning or practicing good nutrition habits. The Child and Adult Care Food Program has minimum requirements which will ensure introduction to new foods, a variety of foods offered, and promotes a relaxed atmosphere at meal time. But promoting nutritious meals and snacks can be a costly proposition for a home-based child care business. Therefore, the Food Program reimburses providers for the good food they serve. How to Participate First, a participant must be a licensed, certified, or registered day care provider.