This memorandum is to provide guidance on the verification process and reporting for categorically eligible foster children
This is a reminder of the statutory and regulatory requirements for categorical eligibility for the Child Nutrition Programs based on receipt of benefits from each state’s Temporary Assistance to Needy Families program. The Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act restricts categorical eligibility to those TANF programs with standards that are comparable to or more restrictive than those in effect on June 1, 1995.
This memorandum modifies the policy related to categorical eligibility for free meals or free milk for children who are members of a household receiving assistance under SNAP, the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations or the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Program.
Recently, we have received numerous concerns regarding the improper application of the new procurement rule, Procurement Requirements for the National School Lunch, School Breakfast and Special Milk Program, which was published in the Federal Register on Oct. 31, 2007 and became effective on Nov. 30, 2007.
In accordance with the Older Americans Act Amendments of 2006, state or Area Agencies on Aging and Indian Tribal Organizations and their selected grantees may use funds received in the Nutrition Services Incentive Program to pay school food authorities participating in school meals programs to make food purchases.
The purpose of this memorandum is to clarify state agency procedures for direct verification, especially concerning the use of Medicaid data.