The Sycamore School has received its contract renewal for the Child & Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) for FY 2010. This is a Federally funded program that is operated in Arizona by the Department of Education. The program sets standards for meals served to all children at The Sycamore School. Healthy meals are required; no more than two high fat and high sugar meals each week, lots of fresh fruits and vegetables with variety and ethnic diversity in meal planning. The CACFP requires that staff who prepare or serve food have Maricopa County Food Handlers Cards (all of our staff do) and that they receive regular training.
In return for participating we receive a monthly subsidy payment that is based on the number of meals served and the number of families in each of three income categories. Every new family completes a CACFP Income Affidavit which determines the payment level. This information is updated every July and whenever the parent indicates a change that might affect the level.
We have just completed a CACFP training program for all of the Sycamore Staff. This included information on meal requirements, infant feeding, food safety, record keeping and civil rights. All new staff receive similar training when they join us and we provide updates on CACFP issues at our staff meetings.
For information on what your family can do to promote a healthy lifestyle check out the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website referenced at the left.
The Sycamore School is an equal opportunity provider and employer.