On Monday, State Auditor Shad White released a report that shows how nonprofits spend money received through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) from the federal government and administered by the Mississippi Department of Education. The audit shows that the program is following good procedures and ensuring that hungry children are being fed. The CACFP is a nutrition program meant to provide healthy meals to needy children and adults.
White says he’s thankful to see proper grant monitoring processes in place for programs designed to serve some of the poorest Mississippians.
Mississippi spent nearly $47 million on the program in 2024, $27 million of that went to nonprofits. Analysts determined that the program’s design makes it less likely to be abused than other grant programs highlighted in previous nonprofit reports released by the Auditor’s Office.
Analysts noted proper procedures such as:
- Instead of receiving blank checks, nonprofits participating in CACFP receive a set amount based on the amount of food they serve. This means the nonprofits only receive taxpayer money after they provide an actual service.
- In this case, the Department enforces strict budget requirements, requires specific documentation, and requires organizations to submit quarterly reports. All of these requirements exceed federal standards
The Office of the State Auditor recommends that the Department request approval from the federal government to further restrict administrative spending within CACFP so that more food can go directly to those in need.
Mississippians can report any instances of fraud, waste, or abuse of taxpayer funds spent by nonprofits by emailing [email protected] or calling 1-800-321-1275.
