Getting Started with the CACFP: What You Need to Know

If you’re considering joining the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), getting started is easier than you might think. Here’s what you need to know:

What kind of records must I keep?

Only a small amount of paperwork is required—and it’s not complicated. Before you begin, staff from Solano Family & Children's Services (SFCS) provide training in your home to guide you through the process. Online recordkeeping is also available, making it simple and convenient to stay organized and compliant.

What types of food must be served?

Meals and snacks must meet United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) requirements. This means serving foods from the four basic food groups:

• Milk

• Proteins

• Grains/Breads

• Fruits and Vegetables

These guidelines ensure children in your care receive balanced, nutritious meals that support healthy growth and development.

Where do I begin?

To participate, you must be one of the following:

• A Licensed Family Child Care Home (FCCH) Provider residing in Solano or Napa Counties
  OR

• A TrustLine Registered Provider residing in Solano or Napa Counties with a final clearance letter

Once you have your license or TrustLine registration and at least one child in your care, you’re eligible to begin participating in CACFP.

For more information, contact the CACFP staff at (707) 863-3950, extension #131.

Don’t hesitate—call today and take the next step toward supporting healthy meals in your child care home!

LOCATION

421 Executive Court North

Fairfield, CA 94534-4019

(707) 863-3950

Website

The Benefits of the CACFP for Providers and Families

Participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) offers meaningful benefits for both child care providers and the families they serve.

One of the primary advantages is financial support. Providers receive a monthly reimbursement for serving nutritious meals and snacks that meet program guidelines. Participants may claim reimbursement for:

• Up to two main meals and one snack per child, per day
  OR

• Up to two snacks and one main meal per child, per day

This support helps offset grocery costs while ensuring children receive balanced, healthy meals in care.

Another important benefit is accessibility. All children from infancy through age 12 qualify for participation—regardless of family income level. Children with special needs have no age restrictions, making the program inclusive and supportive for families with diverse needs. In some cases, providers may also be eligible to claim their own residential children, further extending the program’s value.

Parents also appreciate when their provider participates in CACFP. It gives them peace of mind knowing their children are receiving nutritious meals without the added stress of packing food each day. For providers, this can be a strong selling point when marketing a family child care home. Participation demonstrates a commitment to health, quality, and professionalism—qualities families look for when choosing care.

Overall, CACFP supports healthy children, strengthens child care businesses, and builds confidence for parents—all while promoting lifelong healthy eating habits.

LOCATION

421 Executive Court North

Fairfield, CA 94534-4019

(707) 863-3950

Website

Let’s Move Together | Physical Activity

Watch this video about the different ways we can move and groove... children and grown-ups alike!

LOCATION

421 Executive Court North

Fairfield, CA 94534-4019

(707) 863-3950

Website

 

Supporting Healthy Growth: What Is the Child and Adult Care Food Program?

Good nutrition plays a vital role in a child’s growth, learning, and overall well-being. The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is designed to ensure children in care settings receive the healthy meals and snacks they need to thrive each day.

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is a federally funded initiative operated through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service. Its primary purpose is to provide nutritious meals and snacks to children in licensed child care homes and centers. By supporting balanced, age-appropriate meals, the program helps promote healthy eating habits early in life.

In Solano and Napa counties, the program is sponsored by Solano Family & Children's Services (SFCS). Through this sponsorship, local child care providers receive guidance, resources, and reimbursement for serving meals that meet federal nutrition standards. This partnership ensures that children in home-based care settings have access to wholesome food options every day.

Beyond simply providing meals, CACFP supports families and child care providers by reinforcing the importance of nutrition education and consistent meal patterns. When children have access to healthy foods in a supportive environment, they build strong foundations for lifelong wellness.

Programs like CACFP demonstrate how community partnerships and federal support can work together to make a meaningful difference—one healthy meal at a time.

LOCATION

421 Executive Court North

Fairfield, CA 94534-4019

(707) 863-3950

Website

March 15th - 21st : CACFP Week

LOCATION

421 Executive Court North

Fairfield, CA 94534-4019

(707) 863-3950

Website

Let’s Eat Together | Eating Well

Watch this video with children to celebrate the joy of eating together and trying new things!

LOCATION

421 Executive Court North

Fairfield, CA 94534-4019

(707) 863-3950

Website

Happy President's Day

LOCATION

421 Executive Court North

Fairfield, CA 94534-4019

(707) 863-3950

Website