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How to Apply

CACFP Application Process

Consider participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program!

CACFP is a federal program that provides reimbursement for nutritious meals and snacks served

to participants. In Indiana, CACFP is administered by the Indiana Department of Education.

Why CACFP?

  • Provides funding to supplement the cost of healthy meals and snacks.
  • Teaches children at an early age a healthier way of eating that will last a lifetime.
  • Gives parents and caregivers confidence knowing that you are invested in the health and well-being of their children.
  • Offers guidance in menu planning and recipe ideas.
  • Offers technical assistance and consultation to assist in your program’s success.
  • Ready-to-use parent and family information to encourage healthy eating in and out of the childcare setting.

Check out this quick video to learn more about CACFP.

Participation Options

Center-type Facilities* (two ways to participate)  Family Childcare Homes
Apply through a sponsoring organization: Apply as your own sponsor through IDOE: Must apply through a sponsoring organization:
  • Average two-week application
  • Fewer recordkeeping requirements
  • Less financial responsibility
  • Reimbursement at 85% of claimed meals
  • Average three-month application
  • Full financial and administrative responsibility
  • Responsible for all record-keeping and reporting
  • Reimbursement at 100% of claimed meals
  • Average two-week application
  • Few recordkeeping requirements
  • Reimbursement is calculated separate from sponsoring organization and based on Tier 1 (low-income) and Tier II eligibility
*Center-type facilities include childcare centers, ministries, head start, adult day cares, emergency shelters, at-risk afterschool meals programs, and outside school hours programs.

Application Process to Apply Through a Sponsoring Organization

Contact the sponsoring organizations in your county to learn about their organization and application procedure:

Application Process to Apply as your Own Sponsor Through IDOE

Step 1    Submit an eligibility questionnaire
Step 2    Complete initial documents and complete new sponsor training
Step 3    Technical assistance visit with a field specialist
Step 4    Submit online application through CNPweb
Step 5    Pre-approval visit with a field specialist
Step 6    Begin program implementation, if approved

For questions regarding the CACFP application process, contact cacfp@doe.in.gov.