C

Catering

Catering is a situation when food is made available by the LEA for a single event or special purpose. Catering to civic clubs or associations may be provided according to the policy of the district, but care should be taken to avoid competition with local businesses. Charges must cover all costs, not just the regular adult price of the food to employees or authorized visitors on business at school. It is necessary to keep a record of such meals. The appropriate amount of state and/or city sales taxes must also be collected.

Preparing meals which are served to school-related student groups outside of lunchtime is bound by the same restrictions that govern catering to civic clubs or associations. No reimbursement may be claimed, and the full cost of preparing the meal must be covered by charges to the customer.

Catering may include meals prepared on a sustained basis by a school which are not claimed for reimbursement. These meals may be prepared for senior citizens, Head Start programs, private schools, or CACFP participants. A clear, auditable trail is necessary to track costs which must be separated from the NSLP/SBP. It is recommended that a separate Food Production Record form be used.