Originally Posted by gumdrops:
The center in our town has all the kids pack their lunch and another center has the food "catered" through the school system. I think packed lunches would be a pain warming up everyone's food separately. If you bring food in from a separate source, can you still claim it on the food program? Do most centers hire a separate cook? Is it worth paying someone to cook your food? Sorry, I know every situation is different, just trying to get an idea of what would make the most sense financially and what would be easiest. Also, do you have a separate cafeteria or does everyone eat in their classroom?
This really depends on your area. Most centers in my area have their own cook and kitchen. You do not get reimbursed in the families bring in their own food (I'm pretty sure), though I could order a pizza and get reimbursed so long as I made sure the full meal components were present (one vegetable, one fruit, milk)
I think some providers here did a meal service but I can't imagine that paying off. I shop and cook carefully so that I am making money off the program. Your best bet is to talk to the sponsoring agency in your area. They will guide you on the ins and outs.