The Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has urged Texans to explore the benefits of the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). Administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), this federally funded initiative operates at approximately 13,000 sites across Texas, including adult day care centers, childcare centers, home-based daycares, and afterschool programs. The program aims to promote healthy lifestyles by providing eligible children and adults with nutritious free or reduced-price meals and snacks.

“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,” Commissioner Miller stated. “Each year, CACFP delivers around 200 million nutritious meals and snacks across Texas. I encourage families to take advantage of this valuable resource and support the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to ensure healthy food is available through CACFP.”

In October, schools and CACFP providers are invited to participate in Commissioner Miller’s Farm Fresh Challenge. This initiative recognizes those who serve more Texas products and offer agricultural education opportunities. For further details on the challenge, visit SquareMeals.org/FarmFreshChallenge. Additional information about CACFP can be found at SquareMeals.org/CACFP.

CACFP meals are funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and meet specific nutrition standards. Participants receive balanced meals that may include Texas products. Meals are provided at no extra charge for enrolled participants where tuition covers meal costs or at eligible at-risk afterschool programs where all participants receive free meals.

Applications for free or reduced-price meals can be requested from childcare centers, adult day care centers, or day care home providers. All application information will be kept confidential.

To find a participating center or daycare home under CACFP, call (877) TEX-MEAL. Participating locations will display official "Building for the Future" and “And Justice for All” posters.

In accordance with federal civil rights law and USDA regulations, this institution prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

For alternative communication methods due to disabilities or complaints regarding discrimination within USDA programs:

1.mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue SW Washington D.C., 20250-9410;

2.fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442;

3.call: TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 or Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339;

4.visit: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf

Complete a Form AD-3027 if filing a complaint.

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