Nourishing Futures: CACFP Empowers Healthy Growth Across Texas

In a state as vast and diverse as Texas, ensuring access to nutritious meals and snacks for children and adults in care settings is a vital priority. The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) administers the federally funded Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), which operates at approximately 13,000 sites across the Lone Star State, including adult day care centers, childcare centers, home-based day cares, and afterschool programs. Through this comprehensive initiative, TDA and its dedicated partners are working tirelessly to promote healthy lifestyles and support the essential nutritional needs of vulnerable populations.

Fueling Healthy Futures, One Meal at a Time

Nourishing Young Minds and Bodies

The CACFP plays a crucial role in ensuring that children in care settings across Texas receive the balanced, nutritious meals and snacks they need to thrive. By adhering to strict USDA nutrition standards, CACFP providers deliver a diverse array of wholesome options, often featuring locally sourced Texas products. This not only supports the physical well-being of young participants but also fosters an appreciation for the state's rich agricultural heritage.For families with children enrolled in CACFP-affiliated centers or home-based day cares, the program offers a valuable resource. Meals are either provided at no additional charge or at a reduced cost, making it accessible to households of all income levels. This inclusivity is further reinforced by the automatic eligibility of children from households receiving SNAP, TANF, or other government assistance, as well as those in foster care.

Sustaining the Health of Older Adults

The CACFP's reach extends beyond the young, also catering to the nutritional needs of older adults in day care settings. Participants in eligible adult day care centers can enjoy balanced meals and snacks that meet USDA standards, ensuring they receive the essential nutrients required to maintain their health and vitality.Similar to the program's benefits for children, adults receiving SNAP, FDPIR, Medicaid, or SSI benefits automatically qualify for free meals through CACFP. This accessibility is crucial in supporting the well-being of vulnerable older Texans, many of whom may face financial or mobility challenges that could otherwise limit their access to proper nutrition.

Promoting Farm-Fresh Connections

In a state renowned for its agricultural prowess, the CACFP also serves as a platform to celebrate and support Texas producers. This October, Commissioner Sid Miller's Farm Fresh Challenge encourages CACFP providers and school nutrition teams to showcase more Texas-grown products and integrate agricultural education into their programming.By forging these farm-to-table connections, the CACFP not only nourishes bodies but also cultivates a deeper understanding and appreciation for the state's vibrant food system. This multifaceted approach empowers CACFP participants to develop healthy eating habits while fostering a sense of pride and connection to the local agricultural community.

A Statewide Commitment to Nutrition

The CACFP's impact across Texas is truly remarkable, with the program delivering an astounding 200 million nutritious meals and snacks annually. This vast reach underscores the dedication of TDA and its network of CACFP partners in ensuring that children, older adults, and other vulnerable populations have access to the essential sustenance they need to lead active, healthy lives.As Commissioner Miller emphasizes, "Texas families can rely on TDA's CACFP partners to provide the essential nutrition that young children and older adults need to stay healthy and active." This unwavering commitment to nourishing the state's communities is a testament to the transformative power of the CACFP and its ability to positively shape the futures of Texans of all ages.