Food and Nutrition Programs

CACFP Policy for Active Participation

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Office for Food and Nutrition Programs (FNP) is releasing a policy to outline the requirements to be considered an active participant in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). The policy applies to all Sponsoring Organizations (SO) and ensures that only programs that are actively participating in the CACFP are maintained in the DESE Security Portal.

The CACFP is a federal program that provides reimbursement for nutritious meals and snacks served to eligible infants, children, and adults who are enrolled for care at participating centers, schools, day care homes, and/or residing in emergency shelters. Program participation and compliance is assessed against claims submitted for reimbursement.

Therefore, to be considered actively operating the CACFP, participating institutions must submit accurate site claims for reimbursable meals and snacks served to participants.

If a center is unable to submit a claim during their normal operating year, they must communicate with DESE that they will not be submitting a claim for that month and identify the reasons why they were unable to submit a claim.

If an institution does not submit a claim for three (3) consecutive months during their operating year, this may result in a denial of the annual application and require the SO to reapply to the Program.

If there are any questions about this policy, please contact your Special Nutrition Programs DESE consultant or FNP at 781-338-6480.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.