The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is a federal initiative designed to help child care centers serve wholesome meals and snacks. Through USDA funding, CACFP is able to support centers in improving and maintaining the health and development of children in their care.
In North Dakota, the Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) administers CACFP for eligible child care centers across the state. To get started with the program, our guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Eligibility requirements
Before applying, confirm that your program meets CACFP’s eligibility standards. In North Dakota, both public and private nonprofit child care centers, as well as certain for‑profit centers, can qualify if they meet the following criteria:
- Nonprofit child care centers (licensed, nonresidential)
- For‑profit child care or adult care centers, if at least 25 percent of enrolled participants are eligible for free or reduced‑price meals
How to apply for CACFP in North Dakota
Participating in CACFP involves two phases: contacting NDDPI and completing the required training and paperwork.
1. Express interest and contact NDDPI
Email dpicnfd@nd.gov to let the Child Nutrition and Food Distribution team know you’re interested in CACFP. Request the application packet, policy manuals, and recordkeeping templates you’ll need.
Once they receive your email, NDDPI will reach out with next steps. They’ll provide a checklist of required documents—such as licensing certificates, organizational bylaws (for nonprofits), and enrollment rosters—and outline submission deadlines.
2. Complete mandatory training
To ensure your center complies with CACFP requirements, your staff must complete the following trainings:
- CACFP orientation (all staff): Covers program regulations, claim month calendars, claim submission procedures, and best practices for recordkeeping (menus, attendance, meal counts).
- Menu planning and nutrition standards (menu planner or food service lead): Learn how to develop a weekly menu that meets CACFP meal patterns for breakfast, lunch/supper, and snacks. Meals must include required components: fruits/vegetables, grains, protein, and milk (for children ages 1–18).
- Civil Rights training (all staff, annually): Understand nondiscrimination policies, complaint procedures, and required postings.
- Sanitation training (Lead Food Service Worker, within 6 months of hire): Certification is valid for five years. You can take the course online via the Institute of Child Nutrition (approx. 3 hours) or in person through an 8-hour session offered by NDDPI, typically held mid-summer.
2. Submit your application
Once you’re done with training and your application is complete, submit all documents to NDDPI for review at dpicnfd@nd.gov. NDDPI will review your submission and notify you of approval or request any missing information.
Upon approval, you’ll receive your CACFP agreement and can begin serving and claiming meals.
Your completed packet should include:
- Application form: Basic program information, license details, and contact information.
- Signed agreements: A sponsor agreement (if you’re under an FCCH sponsor) or a direct agreement with NDDPI.
- Menu templates: At least one week of sample menus for breakfast, lunch/supper, and snacks, aligned with CACFP meal patterns (see below).
- Civil rights & sanitation certificates: Proof of staff compliance with required annual and initial training.
Recordkeeping and documentation
Your child care center must maintain accurate and organized records to properly comply with CACFP. Here’s what your center must track:
- Attendance logs: Keep daily, dated records with each child’s full name. These verify participant presence and support meal claims.
- Meal counts: Record meals at the point of service. Logs must include each participant’s name and meal type, and date.
- Child and infant menus: They must show the food items served, ingredients, and portion sizes.
- CACFP-related expenses: Track daily expenses such as food, supplies, and labor for food service.
- Staff time logs: For staff paid with CACFP funds. Include name, daily hours, and time spent monitoring.
Reimbursement process
Child care centers can be reimbursed for up to three feedings per child each day in these combinations:
- Two meals and one snack (e.g., breakfast, lunch, PM snack)
- One meal and two snacks (e.g., lunch, AM snack, PM snack)
Reimbursement rates depend on the number of meals served and each child’s household income eligibility (free, reduced, or paid). These rates are updated annually by the USDA.
Monthly claims must be submitted within the first 10 days of the following month for the previous month’s meals.
Ready to apply?
Joining CACFP in North Dakota is a powerful way to support your child care center in North Dakota. Ready to get started? Reach out to the North Dakota Child Nutrition and Food Distribution team to learn exactly what’s involved and how to navigate the steps.
Contact them at: dpicnfd@nd.gov or (701) 328-2260
Your dedication can make a real difference in the health of the children in your care!
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If you’re interested in providing fresh, healthy food for your school, you can reach out to the school partnerships team here.
