Federal Formula Grant Award Summary

The Maryland State Department of Education received a $1,272,475 formula grant from the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) under the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP, CFDA 10.558), effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. As the state administering agency, MSDE utilizes this federal funding to support the provision of nutritious meals and snacks to eligible children and adults enrolled in nonresidential child care facilities, day care homes, afterschool care programs in low-income areas, and emergency shelters throughout Maryland. The funding enables reimbursements to participating nonprofit food service operations and supports state-level program administration expenses, including oversight, audit functions, and technical assistance.

Under this formula grant, MSDE enters into written agreements with participating child care institutions and subsequently disburses federal funds to local nonprofits, day care providers, and community organizations that directly deliver meal and nutrition services to eligible populations. The program emphasizes ensuring equitable access to nutritious food services regardless of participants' race, sex, color, national origin, age, or disability. Additionally, the grant supports MSDE's administrative responsibilities related to program compliance, institution approval and oversight, grievance procedures, and maintenance of comprehensive program records required under USDA regulations.