$722K in food shipments to East Tennessee food bank canceled by U.S. Department of Agriculture
MARYVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Twenty-one tractor-tailer loads of food coming to East Tennessee were canceled by the United States Department of Agriculture, Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee shared.
According to the food bank, the loads contained $722,000 worth of USDA commodities food and represented more than 377,000 lbs. of nutritious proteins and dairy. The shipments were scheduled to arrive between April and July before being canceled on March 24. The food was funded by the Commodities Credit Corporation (CCC), which is paused due to federal review.
USDA halts more than $1B in funding for local food banks, schools
Second Harvest said the impact for East Tennessee is immediate, adding that families who rely on food assistance could face shortages as funding cuts to the USDA have disrupted food bank shipments across the nation.
'The loss of these shipments is significant and impacts a critical element of our hunger-relief programs for communities in need,' said Executive Director Elaine Streno.
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The food was set to be distributed through programs like Mobile Pantry, Harvest to Home (which offers food boxes to those undergoing medical treatment) and Partner Agencies in Second Harvest's service area. The food bank said they were working to replace the products.
'While we're concerned by the diminished capacity to serve our neighbors, we remain committed to strengthening food access for East Tennesseans and provide adequate nutrition for a healthy life,' said Streno. 'This is a crucial time for our community to step up. We ask the public to continue supporting our hunger-relief efforts by hosting food drives and providing financial support. Together, we will provide adequate nutrition for more than 200,000 individuals who experience food insecurity.'
End of USDA funding for fresh local produce hits Grainger County Schools
Second Harvest serves 18 counties across the East Tennessee region.
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