Child Care Food Program
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Child Care Food Program?
The Child Care Food Program (CCFP) is federally funded by the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and provides cash reimbursement to licensed family child care providers and Trustline exempt providers for serving nutritious meals and snacks to children zero through twelve years of age while in childcare.
Who benefits from the Child Care Food Program?
Children, parents and providers all benefit from the Child Care Food Program. Children benefit by receiving nutritious meals and snacks so that they grow strong, healthy and ready to learn. Parents benefit since they do not have to provide food themselves and have the peace of mind that their children are eating healthy while in care. Providers benefit by receiving a monthly cash reimbursement for the cost of meals and snacks served in addition to receiving nutrition education and meal planning resources.
How do I join the Child Care Food Program?
Fill out the Provider Information Form or contact us at 530-676-0707. All you need is a computer, smartphone or tablet with internet access. Once we receive a copy of your family child care license we will set up a one hour training in your home to get you started claiming so you can be reimbursed for the meals and snacks you serve!
How do I claim meals and how do I get paid on the Child Care Food Program?
Meals are recorded using a free and easy to use online computer program called KidKare. Meals are entered daily and then the claim is submitted electronically at the end of each month. You will receive a check in the mail at the end of the following month. (Direct Deposit coming soon!)
How many meals and snacks can I claim per child per day?
You may claim 2 meals (breakfast/lunch /dinner) and a snack or 2 snacks and a meal per child per day.
What are the meal pattern requirements?
The Meal Pattern for Infants and Older Children are found on the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)website.
How is my rate of reimbursement determined?
There are two rates of reimbursement (See our brochure). There are no requirements to qualify for the Tier 2 (lower rate). You may qualify for the Tier 1 (higher rate) based on your nearest elementary, middle or high school ( if 50 percent or more of students attending school receive free/reduced price meals). You may also qualify Tier 1 by your own household size and income or if you are on a categorically eligible program (ie, CalFresh).
Can I claim my own children?
If you qualify for the Tier 1 rate based on your own household size and income or categorically(ie, CalFresh) you may claim your own residential children ages zero through thirteen years of age on the Child Care Food Program as long as there is another day care child being served the same meal.