Nationwide Waiver to Allow Non-Congregate Meal Service for School Year 2021-2022

Why It Matters 

Non-congregate meals play a critical role in supporting access to nutritious meals while minimizing exposure to COVID-19.  Child care operators have the opportunity to provide meal pick-up options and/or facilities grab-and-go meals to better serve children during the pandemic. 

Summary: 

This nationwide waiver allows CACFP operators in States that elect to be subject to this waiver to provide non-congregate meals.  For example, social distancing and remote learning may require non-congregate feeding flexibilities.   This waiver is effective July 1, 2021, and remains in effect through June 30, 2022.  This waiver is intended to provide schools and child care providers support in continuing to offer nutritious meals while safely and successfully reopening. While the waiver is available through June 30, 2022, flexibilities under the waiver should be implemented by program operators until such a time when greater levels of congregation in school and child care settings safe and healthy to pursue.   

FULL TEXT