The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has revised its findings from a compliance review of Balanced Nutrition Inc., a nonprofit organization previously led by Yolanda Hill, wife of former Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson. The organization contracted with the state to assist childcare centers in accessing federal funding for children’s meals under the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).
The initial DHHS review, conducted in July 2024, cited Balanced Nutrition for multiple violations, including excessive administrative costs, insufficient documentation of food purchases, and the purchase of non-program-approved items. These findings resulted in the nonprofit being ordered to repay $132,000 in disallowed funds for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Among the flagged issues was the employment of Hill’s daughter, Kimberly Cephas, without the required state approval—a direct violation of program regulations.
Balanced Nutrition ceased operations in April 2024, just as DHHS prepared to conduct the compliance review. Hill’s decision to shut down the organization came amidst increasing scrutiny of its practices, which drew political and public attention due to her connection to Robinson, a prominent gubernatorial candidate at the time.
Revised Findings Following Additional Documentation
In a January 7, 2025, letter to Balanced Nutrition, DHHS announced a reduction in the amount owed, revising the total to $101,142. This change followed a September 2024 meeting between DHHS officials and representatives from Balanced Nutrition, during which additional documentation was submitted for review.
According to DHHS, the revised findings include $21,239 in disallowed funds for test facilities and $79,902 in disallowances for the nonprofit itself. Despite the reduction, DHHS stated that “Balanced Nutrition, Inc., … remains out of compliance in multiple areas of CACFP administration at both the Sponsor and the Facility level.” Hill will receive an invoice for the adjusted amount and has 30 days to repay the disallowed funds.
The compliance issues primarily stemmed from administrative mismanagement and the nonprofit’s failure to adhere to federal guidelines. For instance, CACFP regulations mandate transparency and accountability in program spending, including strict oversight of labor costs and food procurement. DHHS found Balanced Nutrition lacking in these areas during its review.
Political Implications of the Controversy
The compliance review findings became a contentious issue during Robinson’s 2024 gubernatorial campaign. Both Robinson and Hill alleged that the investigation was politically motivated, citing what they described as undue scrutiny from DHHS. However, the department maintained that its actions were consistent with federal and state oversight requirements for CACFP sponsors.
The controversy surrounding Balanced Nutrition, combined with other challenges during Robinson’s campaign, contributed to his defeat. He lost the gubernatorial race to Democrat Josh Stein by a margin of nearly 15%. Political analysts noted that the Balanced Nutrition case, along with Robinson’s polarizing rhetoric, played a significant role in shaping public perception during the election.
Broader Context and Implications
The compliance issues at Balanced Nutrition underscore the importance of accountability for organizations that handle federal funds. The CACFP, which is designed to provide nutritious meals to children and adults in need, relies on sponsoring organizations to distribute funds effectively and in compliance with federal guidelines. Failures like those at Balanced Nutrition can jeopardize the program’s ability to serve vulnerable populations.
For the Bull City Citizen, this story reflects a broader commitment to investigative reporting and holding public figures accountable. As North Carolina’s leading local news source, we strive to provide readers with unbiased, in-depth coverage of the issues that matter most. Stay informed with the Bull City Citizen as we continue to follow developments in this case and other critical stories across the state.
Editor’s Note: If you have information or insights related to Balanced Nutrition or similar programs, contact us at editor@bullcitycitizen.com. Your input helps ensure transparency and accountability in public affairs.
