USDA will execute a third round of its Farmers to Families Food Box Program from September 1 to October 31.
The program — a part of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program — was set up to buy a total of $3 billion in fresh produce, dairy and meat for distribution through food banks, community and faith-based organizations and other nonprofits to people in need.
“This third round of Farmers to Families Food Box Program purchases is a testament to the great work done by vendors in support of American agriculture and the American people,” Agriculture Secretary Sonny Purdue said in a release. “It is also a testament that the program is accomplishing what we intended — supporting U.S. farmers and distributors and getting food to those who need it most. It’s a real trifecta, which is why we call it a win-win-win.”
In the first round of the program from May 15 through June 30, the USDA bought more than $947 million in food, and the department plans to spend up to $1.47 billion for the second round, which started on July 1 and lasts until Aug. 31. That leaves about $583 million for the third round of boxes.
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The USDA stated that eligibility for distributors will be open to entities who can “meet the government’s requirements and specifications.” These entities can find more information on how to submit proposals on the program’s website.
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