USDA Foods Program Disaster Manual

This manual explains the requirements of 7 CFR 250.69 and 250.70, for the use of USDA Foods in a Presidentially declared (i.e., major) disaster or emergency and situations of distress. It clarifies policy and procedures, incorporates lessons learned from past disasters and contains information to help state distributing agencies (DAs), including Indian Tribal Organizations (ITOs), plan for disasters or emergencies.

FNS recognizes that disaster events and DA responses to disasters vary widely. This manual is not designed to provide an exhaustive list of solutions. Rather, it is intended to help DAs create and implement a disaster plan that addresses their unique geographic, economic, and demographic circumstances, the disaster’s nature, and the scope of the damage. This document provides detailed information on the use of USDA Foods for congregate feeding and disaster household distribution (DHD) in response to a major disaster, emergency, or situations of distress.