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Free Meal Finder

Ensuring that children have access to nutritious meals is the top priority for the CACFP community. However, some children may still be missing out on meals, whether it’s on the weekend, during child care closures, or simply for their third full meal of the day. That’s why our partners at No Kid Hungry have developed a Free Meal Finder Map.

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Child Nutrition Program Operations During the COVID-19 Pandemic

In May 2023, the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) published a report focused on Child Nutrition Program (CNP) operations during the first few months of the COVID-19 pandemic, March through September 2020, including information on the nationwide waivers that FNS approved for use during that period.

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Team Nutrition Quizzes

Team Nutrition Quizzes can be used for self-paced knowledge assessments, at trainings, or at other nutrition events as a fun and engaging learning activity. Upon completion of each quiz, quiz takers receive a score along with a link to resources that can help expand their knowledge on the topic and build their menu planning skills.

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Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) Transition

In April 2022 Federal agencies transitioned from use of the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number to the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Child Nutrition Program Operators are required to have the UEI to receive payments from State agencies who administer the Child Nutrition programs on behalf of the Federal government. This memorandum provides answers to questions related to the transition.

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Barriers and Facilitators of Center-Based ECE Program Participation in the CACFP

In April 2023, the Indiana University CACFP Project Team published a study on the barriers, facilitators, and potential strategies to address center-based participation in the CACFP. One of the key barriers to participation shared by study participants included the cumbersome CACFP paperwork. Facilitators to participation included supports provided by stakeholders and sponsors.

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Understanding Grain-Based Desserts ($)

Wondering why savory biscotti, rice pudding, and scones are creditable in the CACFP, but the same items made with fruits are considered to be sweet and are not allowed for reimbursement under the meal pattern? Grain-based desserts are a category of food items that are considered sweet and high in sugar. By eliminating grain-based desserts in the CACFP, USDA hopes to reduce the amount of added sugars kids eat in child care. While brownies clearly fall in the grain-based desserts category, other food items can be tricky. Learn how to determine what is creditable and what is not based on the USDA guidance.

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Boost Vocabulary with Rhyming

Rhymes are a great way to boost vocabulary. And it’s sure to make a child smile for miles! If you work with young children and are looking to enhance their language abilities, try these rhyming activities created by our partners at Vroom.

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