USDA pauses food deliveries, impacting Sacramento food banks

Food banks in the U.S., including those in Sacramento, are facing a serious challenge after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) paused food deliveries. These deliveries were part of an Emergency Food Assistance Program that had allocated $500 million earlier this year. Kevin Buffalino from the Sacramento County Food Bank explained that the government is reviewing programs created during the COVID-19 pandemic and starting to reduce support. This includes stopping the Commodity Credit Corporation, leaving food banks with supply shortages. "We have about 400,000 pounds of food already ordered that’s currently frozen," Buffalino said. This frozen shipment includes essential items like milk, chicken, and eggs. Although some food banks have reported canceled orders, Sacramento’s food bank has not received official cancellation notices yet. The Sacramento Food Bank distributes food through over 200 locations in the area. Brandon Ralph from the River City Food Bank mentioned the increasing demand, stating they anticipate serving 400 to 450 households daily. For many people, these food banks provide vital support. With the uncertainty around federal funding, food banks are relying more on private donations and partnerships to meet the rising need. Buffalino urged the community to help, emphasizing that they must work together to fill the gaps left by the cuts. The future for these food banks remains unclear, but immediate solutions are crucial for thousands relying on their services. For now, they continue to operate while waiting for further information from the government.