The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and administered by the Delaware Department of Education. It provides funding for after-school nutrition programs that combine educational and enrichment activities with an evening snack or dinner. To qualify for the program, sites must operate in areas where at least 50 percent of the children attending the nearest school qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. The Food Bank sponsors after-school programs run by community and nonprofit organizations. Addressing the Cause of Hunger
The USDA’s CACFP plays a vital role in alleviating childhood hunger. Research shows that children who eat more nutritious meals are less likely to miss school, have fewer behavioral problems and perform better in school. For some CACFP participants, the meal received after school is the last nutritious meal received before returning to school the next day.
In the 2010-2011 school year, the Food Bank of Delaware produced close to 315,000 meals. All meals are prepared at the Food Bank’s Newark facility using an industrial-sized kitchen and the Food Bank’s drivers deliver meals to after-school program sites.
Community collaborations are central to the success of CACFP. Community after-school programs or daycare centers that are interested in becoming involved with CACFP should contact Stacy Stevens (New Castle County) at (302) 444-8128 or Holly Johnson (Kent and Sussex Counties) at (302) 424-3301 ext 102.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).