[Politico] The Agriculture Department said Monday that it will spend $470 million to buy more surplus food amid the widespread disruption to the food supply as a result of the coronavirus.The move comes a week after POLITICO reported the department had been slow to make such purchases even though demand at food banks has surged. The purchases will target fruits and vegetables, meat, dairy and seafood — which have seen their markets turned upside down as restaurants and other food service businesses have closed.
"President Trump has authorized USDA to support our farmers affected by this national emergency and this action to purchase food and deliver to those in need further demonstrates his unwavering support for the American people during these unprecedented times," Agriculture Secretary Perdue said in the announcement.
"America’s farmers and ranchers have experienced a dislocated supply chain caused by the coronavirus," he added. "USDA is in the unique position to purchase these foods and deliver them to the hungry Americans who need it most."
The $470 million will be spent as a part of a broad authority USDA has had since 1935 that allows for food purchases to help both farmers and people in need through school meals, food banks and other programs.