1. Program Definition and Services 

Meal & Nutrition Services in Maine aim to improve the health and well-being of individuals, particularly older adults, children, and those with disabilities, by providing access to nutritious meals and dietary education. Key services include: 

• Congregate Nutrition Services: Meals served in community settings to promote socialization and provide nutrition education. 

• Home-Delivered Nutrition Services: Meals delivered to eligible individuals who are homebound or unable to prepare meals. 

• Nutrition Counseling: Individualized guidance for those at high nutritional risk. 

• Child Nutrition Programs: Meals for children under programs like the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). 

• Nutrition Education: Information on healthy eating habits and meal preparation. 

2. Regulations 

Meal & Nutrition Services in Maine are governed by: 

• Older Americans Act (OAA) Nutrition Programs (42 U.S.C. § 3001 et seq.)  

• MaineCare Benefits Manual, Chapter II, Section 65 

• USDA Nutrition Standards for CACFP Meals and Snacks 

• Title 20-A §6602 of Maine Revised Statutes for school-based nutrition programs 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must meet state and federal requirements to operate as Meal & Nutrition Services providers. Certification may be required depending on the program, such as approval by the Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) or compliance with USDA standards for child nutrition programs. 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), specifically: 

• The Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) for older adult programs 

• The Department of Education for child nutrition programs 

5. Application Process 

Providers must apply through the relevant state agency: 

• For older adult services, applications are submitted to OADS. 

• For child nutrition programs like CACFP, applications are submitted through the Department of Education. 

• Applications typically involve submitting documentation demonstrating compliance with state and federal regulations. 

6. Required Documentation 

Providers generally need to submit: 

• Completed application forms 

• Proof of compliance with USDA or OADS nutrition standards 

• Menus reviewed and approved by a registered dietitian 

• Evidence of staff training in food safety and sanitation 

• Facility inspection reports (if applicable) 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The timeline for approval varies by program but may take several weeks to months due to menu reviews, facility inspections, and staff training verification. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

While no formal pre-application process is mentioned, providers should ensure they meet all state and federal requirements before applying, including having a registered dietitian review menus and establishing food safety protocols. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

Training requirements include: 

• Food safety training for all staff handling food 

• Training in meal preparation that meets USDA or OADS standards 

• Specialized training for registered dietitians providing nutrition counseling 

10. Additional Notes 

• Providers must prioritize services for vulnerable populations, including older adults with low income, limited English proficiency, or those living in rural areas 

• Menus must meet specific dietary guidelines, including low sodium, low fat, and nutrient-rich options 

• Congregate meal sites must also provide opportunities for socialization alongside meals. 

• Providers offering home-delivered meals must conduct an in-person assessment within ten business days of referral to determine eligibility 

• Providers must maintain records of menus for seven years and ensure compliance with sanitation standards