(X) Policy Memo
( ) Training Memo
( ) Information Memo

December 23, 2008

Child Care Centers, Adult Day Care, Head Start, At Risk, Homeless and Outside School Hours Programs participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program

RE: Simplified Acquisition Threshold

Effective immediately, institutions participating in the Child and Adult Care Program (CACFP) may use simplified acquisition procedures for small purchases up to the threshold set by 41 U.S.C. 403 (11), which is currently $100,000, regardless of program type.

Small purchase procedures are simple and informal procurement methods used to secure services, supplies, or other property that fall below the established threshold. While relatively simple and informal, small purchase procedures must still be conducted in a competitive manner.

The USDA CACFP Center Manual (“Big Red”), Chapter 14, Section B, 14.4 and Section C, 14.5 provides information regarding cost threshold and small purchase procedures.

If you have questions, please contact your assigned nutrition specialist.

Sincerely,

Lynne Reinoso
Manager, Community Nutrition
Child Nutrition Programs
Office of Finance & Administration