The Farm Fresh Challenge gives NSLP and CACFP operators the chance to show their dedication to serving Texas-grown-and-produced foods to their students throughout the month of October. organizations who achieve set goals earn awards for serving Texas products, teaching students about Texas agriculture, and sharing their dedication on social media. Learn more about the Farm Fresh Challenge here. Pledge to participate in the 2025 Farm Fresh Challenge now!

Important Renewal Application Deadlines CACFP PY26 Renewal season has begun and the final due date for organizations is close! Important due dates to remember: August 15, 2025, Tier 3 and/or Dual Sponsor: August 30, 2025 for Sponsoring Organizations, Tier 2 Renewals, and/or making significant changes to a previously approved application packet. September 30, 2025 if you are an Independent Center and/or Tier 1 renewal. Please review more information on the Renewing organizations page on Squaremeals.

Visit USDA for more information on the Final Rule and upcoming changes. Let us know what kind of resources would best support you in implementing these new meal standards – Click here!

Mark your calendar for Thursday, September 11 from 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. (CDT)!

TANS Talk is an office hours session that will allow CEs to review TANS related updates. We are excited to share all of the new updates about this platform and answer any questions.

How to Participate in TANS Talk:
Use this TANS Talk Feedback Form to submit any TANS questions you would like to see reviewed during the call. Please note that the Feedback Form will close on Wednesday, September 10 at 5 p.m. (CDT) to give our team time to prepare for the meeting. Visit the TANS homepage and Resources page for access to past TANS Talks, updates, trainings, and more.

On September 1, 2025, in accordance with Texas Senate Bill 1173, which raises the formal procurement threshold for school districts from $50,000 to $100,000, TDA is also raising the formal procurement threshold to $100,000 for all nutrition and household programs. As such, beginning September 1, any single transaction over $10,000 but below $100,000 will require the small purchase method, and transactions of $100,000 and over will require formal procurement. TDA is in the process of updating these thresholds in all program handbooks.

Program Year 2025-2026 meal reimbursement rates for the School Nutrition Programs and Child and Adult Care Food Program, including the cash-in-value value of USDA Foods and NSLP Rate of Assistance, have been published on the applicable programs' SquareMeals reimbursement rate pages.