Red Caboose is Madison's oldest independently operated child care center. We have a sliding-fee schedule for tuition, based on family size and income: families who can afford to pay more help defray the cost of care for those who earn less. Red Caboose families are a diverse group in terms of race, ethnicity, income, and family type. Over 20% qualify for free or reduced meals through the Federal Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). We have several families with adoptive or foster children, as well as other “non-traditional” families. In addition, our school age programs include children who are homeless or living in transitional housing. The main emphasis in our program is on the social and emotional development of children. The most important goal for the children in our care is that they feel safe, comfortable, nurtured and loved at Red Caboose.