Halloween is right around the corner and this is a great idea to be sure all kids can be included in the festivities!

The Teal Pumpkin Project is a simple way to make trick-or-treating more inclusive. A teal pumpkin on your doorstep signals that you offer non-food treats and trinkets that delight all trick-or-treaters and that your house is food allergy friendly.

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The audit threshold for federal awards was raised from $750,000 to $1 million. This means that sponsoring organizations who receive less than $1 million in CACFP reimbursement annually are not required to have an annual audit.

Join the National Farm to School Network and parents, educators, early care providers, school nutrition directors, and policy leaders for the annual farm to school Movement Meeting. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with others, reflect on the progress made, and set a course for the future. Register today and be part of the growing movement to bring nourishing, local food to schools across the country.

Coming Program Year 2026!

The Texas Automated Nutrition System (TANS) is a web-based system designed to support the administration of federal nutrition programs. TANS allows program sponsors, ESC users, and state users to manage their nutrition program applications, claims, compliance reviews, and more in a robust, streamlined system built using current technology and simple navigation.

Beginning with program year 2026, users will transition from TX-UNPS to TANS to manage their program operations. Though TANS will have a fresh look, new navigation, and slight process changes, it will serve the same role as TX-UNPS.

TANS will be used for the following federal nutrition programs:
• School Nutrition Program (NSLP and SBP)
• Fresh Fruit and Vegetables (FFVP)
• Special Milk Program (SMP)
• Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP and DCH)
• Summer Meal Programs (SFSP and SSO)
• Food Distribution Program (TEFAP, CSFP, and S/FMNP)

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) recommends registering with the Institute of Child Nutrition (ICN) on the ICN Website. ICN offers a wide range of self-paced trainings to help you navigate the complexities of CACFP. Their resources cover various aspects of the program, including nutrition, meal planning, and compliance.

October 17 is National Pasta Day. Try out this simple spaghetti dish made in partnership with Sesame Street in Communities.