USDA’s deadline for requesting direct cash assistance for emergency food purchases is today (August 19). USDA has stated that it will accept applications after this date, but in order to get funds out the door as fast as possible, they are urging Tribes to submit their applications as soon as possible. The agency is using at least $11 million of CCC funds to allow FDPIR and CSFP programs to buy food themselves to alleviate national warehouse delays.
Tribes need to fill out Attachment C in this letter from USDA to receive CCC funds. Additionally, Tribes must have a valid and active SAM.gov registration. Funding will be provided to the bank associated with the SAM.gov profile.
CCC funds can be used to:
Purchase foods that are domestically grown and purchased.
Cover costs associated with shipping and distribution.
Examples of some allowable foods include dairy foods such as cheese and yogurt; fruits and vegetables (including 100% juices); grain products such as pastas and rice; meats (whole, pieces, or food items such as ground meats); and meat alternatives such as beans or legumes. Foods in a wide variety of minimal processing states (e.g., whole, cut, pureed, etc.) and forms (e.g., fresh, frozen, canned, dried, etc.) are allowable, including any items like those currently listed on the FDPIR Foods Available List.
Funds must be used by December 31, 2025. ITOs do not need to track CCC foods with the inventory systems that they have. However, USDA recommended maintaining receipts of the use of CCC funds in case of any future audits.
New USDA guidance on FDPIR shipments
This week, the USDA provided some additional guidance to Tribes. The agency will set aside July orders currently in the system. Within one week of the USDA issuing a final guidance, each ITO will be asked to place new orders that reflect current needs and build an inventory of 1.5 months. Additionally, Tribes are encouraged to keep track of any purchases made related to LFPA in the event funds are made available to reimburse Tribes for the purchases that they have made to support their FDPIR and CSFP programs. Tracking can be done as a part of the quarterly basis LFPA reporting.
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