USDA Ensures Meal Programs During Government Shutdown

 

USDA issued a Q and A on Friday, October 11 to clarify that federal funding is available to reimburse meals served in the School Breakfast Program, the National School Lunch Program, the Special Milk Program, and the Child and Adult Care Food Program, despite the shutdown. The Q and A states that “USDA has determined that additional funding is currently available, and is sufficient to support program activity for several months in FY 2014. This funding is provided through a permanent appropriation supporting the Child Nutrition programs, and its availability to support Child Nutrition program obligations does not depend on further action by Congress.”

Funding for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program “is available and not dependent on further appropriations action by Congress.” State Administrative Expense funding also remains available. Read the Q and A (link below) to get more details and information.

USDA should be applauded for its efforts to ensure the child nutrition programs continue to provide nutritious meals and snacks to our nation’s children. Still, too many other crucial federal programs that serve low-income children and families remain hostage to the shutdown. FRAC urges Congress to act quickly and pass a clean Continuing Resolution that funds the government.