When considering if it's worth it I asked myself.....

- Would my program qualify for Tier 1 or Tier 2?
- Does my approach to nutrition match the food program? In areas they do not match am I willing to compromise?
- How do I feel about having a food program rep come unannounced 2-3 times per year?
- How do I feel about giving notification anytime we want to eat in the park or at a different time, etc.?
- Do I need the food program money to help cover food cost on a monthly basis?
- Would I want a bigger break on the taxes at that point vs. a little each month?
- Does my actual spending match what the food program reimburses?

In my case I decided the Food Program was not worth it. My families bring their own lunch so I provide an AM & PM snack. I serve all organic and mostly local - I also right now am a water only program so I do not serve milk. Since my program would qualify for Tier 2 (which is not as much money) financially it made sense for me to claim it at the end. I do have a dedicated snack drawer in the refrigerator and a dedicated snack box in the pantry. I will go to the store and just separate my personal and dc foods in the cart and at check out. It is not difficult for me to keep it separate.

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