National Child and Adult Care Food Program Week March 14-20, 2010

March 15, 2010

LANSING - Education and private agencies throughout Michigan are celebrating National Child and Adult Care Food Program Week this week, as recognized by the State Board of Education.  

National Child and Adult Care Food Program Week helps recognize and commend those who accept and meet the daily challenge of providing meals to our children and to urge all Michigan residents to become aware of the solid foundation for learning provided by a nutritious meal.   

For children, these programs are provided for public and private child care centers, day care programs, and at-risk afterschool programs.  

"Research shows that proper nutrition for young children not only contributes to their physical growth, but also to their intellectual and emotional development," said state Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan.   

The federal Child and Adult Care Food Program has served children for more than 30 years through advanced practices and nutrition education.  During 2009, more than 150,000 meals were served daily to children at more than 8,200 sites in Michigan.  

"This program, along with other excellent child nutrition programs over the years, is essential to help sustain healthy kids.  There is evidence of continued need for nutrition education and awareness of the value of child nutrition programs," said State Board of Education President Kathleen N. Straus.

To learn more about the Child and Adult Food Program, go to http://www.michigan.gov/cacfp and view the FAQs on day care homes, child care centers, and at-risk afterschool programs.