Child and Adult Care Food Program Eligibility Guidelines Revised for 2025–2026

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FRANKFORT, Ky.(SPA) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released updated income eligibility guidelines for the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) for the 2025–2026 program year. The program, federally funded through the USDA and administered in Kentucky by the Department of Education’s Division of School and Community Nutrition, provides access to free and reduced-price meals for children and adults in qualifying care programs.

Purpose of the CACFP

The CACFP is designed to ensure that individuals in care settings receive nutritious meals and snacks to support their health and development. In Kentucky, the program benefits participants in a wide range of environments, including:

• Childcare centers and family daycare homes
• Head Start programs
• Afterschool care programs
• Emergency shelters serving homeless families
• Adult day care centers

By expanding access to healthy meals, the program not only addresses food security but also encourages lifelong healthy eating habits. For young children, this contributes to proper growth and development. For adults, particularly older adults and those in adult care facilities, it supports improved wellness and overall quality of life.

How Eligibility Is Determined

Each year, the USDA updates the Income Eligibility Guidelines that determine whether individuals qualify for free, reduced-price, or paid meal benefits under CACFP. These guidelines are based on federal poverty levels and are adjusted annually to reflect changes in the cost of living.

Families and adult participants are assessed based on household size and total income. When a household’s income falls at or below the guideline thresholds, the participant may qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Providers use this information to ensure that all eligible participants receive appropriate meal benefits.

Broader Impact

The CACFP plays a critical role in addressing nutritional equity across Kentucky communities. For children in early learning and afterschool programs, reliable access to healthy meals supports both academic and social success. For adults, particularly seniors and individuals in day care centers, consistent nutrition promotes better health outcomes and reduces risks of diet-related illnesses.

By setting these updated guidelines, the USDA and KDE reaffirm their commitment to ensuring that nutritious meals are accessible to those who need them most.

Accessing More Information

Families and adult participants who wish to learn more about the 2025–2026 Income Eligibility Guidelines or apply for the program should contact their local childcare center, adult care provider, or the Kentucky Department of Education, Division of School and Community Nutrition.

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