This collection is a reinstatement, without change, of the currently approved collection.
This memorandum highlights the importance of utilizing standardized checklists, proactive communication to resolve red flags, and detailed documentation throughout the review and decision-making process. It outlines a clear sequence of actions designed to ensure only institutions that fully meet statutory and regulatory requirements enter the program. By following these recommended procedures, state agencies help uphold public confidence, prevent fraud and waste, and safeguard the integrity and accountability that underpin the mission of USDA’s nutrition assistance programs.
The Child and Adult Care Food Program serves children and adults in care settings and relies on strong program integrity to ensure federal resources are used appropriately and reach eligible participants.
As stewards of federal program funds, state agencies must remain vigilant in identifying unusual claiming patterns, errors, or practices that could indicate potential fraud. This memorandum provides guidance to help state agencies recognize common red flags, take timely corrective action, and ensure that program operations remain compliant, transparent, and protective of taxpayer resources.
This memorandum highlights the importance of enforcing recordkeeping systems, clarifying required documentation, and strengthening state agencies’ oversight tools to prevent improper payments, reduce fraud and waste, and uphold public confidence in the program.
To strengthen program integrity and ensure that federal funds are used correctly, we conducted the CACFP Claims Validation Project in the spring of 2026. Through this effort, we aimed to identify irregularities, address vulnerabilities, and reinforce the systems needed to prevent misuse of program funds. The results of this project will be used to inform future rule-making and policy guidance.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is asking states and food service companies, with the support of school food authorities, to pledge to make school meals and snack programs healthier.
We are excited to announce the availability of $8.7 million to provide competitive grants to state agencies to strengthen the integrity of the Child and Adult Care Food Program.
This collection is an extension, without change, of a currently approved collection for maintaining the National Disqualified List of institutions, day care home providers, and individuals that have been terminated or otherwise disqualified from Child and Adult Care Food Program participation.
Suspension in the CACFP training for state agencies.