Exciting News: Food Purchases for Communities in Need
In a heartening move to support communities nationwide, **U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins** recently announced an ambitious initiative by the **U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)** to invest up to **$67 million** in fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables sourced from domestic producers. This essential effort aims to bolster food banks and nutrition assistance programs, ensuring that nutritious food reaches families in need. Underpinning this initiative are the provisions of **Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935**.
Why These Purchases Matter
The USDA is making notable strides in enhancing food security through these strategic purchases. **Fiscal year to date, the USDA has allocated over $600 million** to support our nation’s charitable feeding network, which plays a pivotal role in combating food insecurity.
“These purchases deliver **healthy, nutritious American commodities** to individuals and families in need,” noted Secretary Rollins. “At a time when efforts are underway to **Make America Healthy Again**, USDA is proud to contribute by providing access to the **safest and highest quality fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood** in the world.”
About the Agricultural Marketing Service Section 32 Purchases
The **Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)** continually procures a diverse range of domestically produced and processed agricultural products as mandated by Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935. These **USDA Foods** are essential for nutrition assistance programs, including food banks operating within the **Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)**, forming a critical part of the nation’s food safety net.
Upcoming Purchases Breakdown
In this latest effort, the USDA AMS will invest **$67 million** in the following commodities:
- Atlantic Groundfish: $20 million
- Canned Pears: $14 million
- Dried Sweet Cherries: $3 million
- Great Northern Beans: $14 million
- Pacific Pink Shrimp: $16 million
How Vendors Can Participate
A pre-solicitation will be published soon by the AMS. These purchases are guided by a combination of **industry requests**, **market analysis**, and the specific needs of food banks. For those interested in becoming vendors, detailed information is available on the AMS Selling Food to USDA page.
— USDA
