After the Federal Administration exchanged hands, the highly successful Families to Food Box Program was halted. The Administration felt that while the program successfully supported farmers, hunger needs should be further addressed. After halting the program, USDA continued to receive pressure from CCM and other organizations alike, including congressional representatives, for a replacement program with the funds that were already allocated. We are now starting to see the results of that effort.
Last week, the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) issued a solicitation for the procurement for Mixed Fresh Produce under The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). Bids are due by Wednesday, August 4th, to deliver produce between October 1st and December 31st. Citrus is eligible and is expected to play a significant role in the program. For full details on the solicitation, click here.
We are also hearing that USDA staff is working on additional purchase programs. As more details emerge, we will be sure to share the details.
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