The journey to a healthier future for children begins with proper nutrition, and the 4c Child Care Food Program stands at the forefront of this vital mission. Sponsored by Community Coordinated Care for Children, Inc. (4C), this program is a cornerstone in ensuring young children in Orange, Osceola, Polk, and Seminole counties receive nutritious meals and snacks. Federally funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and administered in Florida by the Department of Health Bureau of Child Care Programs, the 4C Child Care Food Program (CCFP) is dedicated to fighting childhood hunger and obesity.
This impactful program extends its reach to a variety of child care settings, including child care centers, Head Start sites, and licensed family child care home providers. Centers holding current religious accreditation are also encouraged to apply. By participating in the CCFP, these providers gain access to crucial financial reimbursement for serving meals that adhere to stringent USDA nutritional guidelines. This not only alleviates the financial burden of providing healthy food but also ensures that children in their care are receiving the balanced nutrition essential for their growth and development.
Beyond financial assistance, the 4C Child Care Food Program is committed to empowering providers with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in child nutrition. Participants benefit from access to comprehensive nutrition resources, valuable training opportunities, and personalized technical assistance. This holistic approach ensures that providers are well-equipped to create environments that foster healthy eating habits in children from an early age. By partnering with 4C, child care providers become integral partners in shaping a healthier generation, one nutritious meal at a time.
For child care centers or licensed family child care homes eager to learn more about joining the 4C Child Care Food Program and making a positive impact on children’s lives, further information is readily available. Reach out to 4C directly at 407-532-4234 to discover how you can become a part of this essential program and contribute to building healthier communities.
Explore Training Opportunities
For those ready to take the first step, the 4C Child Care Food Program offers specialized orientation training sessions designed for both child care centers and home providers.
Food Program Orientation for Centers Training: This essential training is tailored for child care centers interested in partnering with the 4C CCFP. It is required that the Owner or Director of the center attend this informative session to initiate the partnership process.
Food Program Orientation for Home Providers: Licensed child care home providers looking to join the Child Care Food Program will find the dedicated orientation session invaluable. Registration is required to attend and gain access to program details and enrollment procedures.
Valuable Provider Resources
The 4C Child Care Food Program provides a wealth of resources to support participating providers in delivering exceptional nutrition to children.
WIC Flyer: Increase awareness of the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program with downloadable flyers available in English, Spanish, and Creole. Click here to download the WIC Flyer.
Building for the Future Display Document: Showcase your facility’s commitment to healthy meals by displaying the official “Building for the Future” document. This document informs families that your center participates in the Child Care Food Program (CCFP). Download the display document here.
Supplement C: Encourage Healthful Foods Handbook: Enhance your understanding of child nutrition with the Provider Handbook, “Supplement C: Encourage Healthful Foods.” This guide offers practical nutrition and wellness tips specifically for young children. Download the handbook in English.
Frequently Asked Questions
For quick answers and detailed information, explore the comprehensive FAQ resources:
CCFP Child Care Centers Frequently Asked Questions
CCFP Family Child Care Home Providers Frequently Asked Questions