7 CFR 226.6 (b) (2) (vii) (B)
Compliance with Performance Standards

"Performance Standard 2 — Administrative Capability. The renewing institution must be administratively capable. Appropriate and effective management practices must be in effect to ensure that the Program operates in accordance with this part. To demonstrate administrative capability, the renewing institution must document that it meets the following criteria:

• Has an adequate number and type of qualified staff to ensure the operation of the Program in accordance with this part;
• If a sponsoring organization, documents in its management plan that it employs staff sufficient to meet the ratio of monitors to facilities, taking into account the factors that the State agency will consider in determining a sponsoring organization's staffing needs, as set forth in 226.16(b)(1); and
• If a sponsoring organization, has Program policies and procedures in writing that assign Program responsibilities and duties, and ensure compliance with civil rights requirements

What is permitted to be allocated to administrative costs is governed by FNS Instruction 796-2 Rev.3 (which explains the purpose, authority, scope and allowable costs for the Child and Adult food program) and state agency financial management instructions."

7 CFR 226.22(a)

"This section establishes standards and guidelines for procurement of foods, supplies, equipment, and other goods and services. These standards are furnished to ensure such materials and services are obtained efficiently, and economically, and in compliance with the provisions of applicable federal law and executive orders."

7 CFR 226.6 (4)
Program Agreements

"The State agency must require each institution that has been approved for participation in the Food Program to enter into an agreement governing the rights and responsibilities of each party (State agency and Institution). This agreement can be expanded into a permanent agreement with the State agency if appropriate steps are taken and the State agency can facilitate the service. The existence of a valid agreement, however, does not eliminate the need for an institution to comply with the reapplication process each year. It is important however to understand that this agreement explains the basic responsibilities and duties that the institution must be implementing to ensure compliance with the State agency."

7 CFR 226.20(h)

"Substitutions because of medical needs shall be made only when supported by a statement from a medical authority which includes recommended alternate foods."

USDA Memo SP 23-2008,
CACFP #07-2008, SFSP#06-2008

This memorandum provides guidance regarding amendments to the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (NSLA) that extend automatic eligibility for free meal benefits, including free milk, to all children enrolled in Head Start and participating in child nutrition programs.

USDA Memo SP#34-2008,
CACFP#10-2008, SFSP#09-2008

This memorandum supplements the guidance issued on May 16, 2008 concerning automatic eligibility for free meals for any child who is enrolled in Head Start. It was issued to provide information about free meal benefits for participants in Early Head Start.