Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
2025
Department
Nutrition and Food Systems
Abstract
The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) plays a critical role in supporting the provision of nutritious meals and snacks in child care settings. Understanding the challenges experienced by CACFP operators is essential for developing resources, training, and technical assistance that support effective program implementation. This study examined the challenges and issues faced by child care centers and other CACFP operators participating in the program.
Using a mixed-methods and participatory research approach, researchers conducted a literature review, consulted subject matter experts, and developed a national rapid response survey. The final survey assessed challenges related to food procurement, training, facilities and supplies, and nutrition education resources. A total of 308 CACFP stakeholders representing child care centers, family child care homes, sponsors, Head Start programs, State agencies, and other child nutrition organizations completed the survey.
Results identified food-related challenges as the most significant barriers to program implementation, particularly obtaining foods that meet special dietary needs, CACFP meal pattern requirements, and budget constraints. Training challenges included limited time for staff development, difficulty accessing local training opportunities, and challenges applying program requirements following training. Facility limitations, including insufficient food storage and equipment space, were also reported. Qualitative findings highlighted additional concerns related to administrative burden, financial constraints, food waste, special diets, vendor limitations, and rural food access.
Findings provide valuable insight into the operational challenges affecting CACFP participation and compliance. The results can be used to guide the development of targeted training, resources, and technical assistance that strengthen CACFP operations and support child care providers in delivering nutritious meals to children.
Recommended Citation
Institute of Child Nutrition. (2025). Challenges and issues in child care centers participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program. University, MS: Lofton, K. L.