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FNS Awards $50 Million for Improving Seniors’ Access to Locally Grown Foods, Strengthening Supply Chain Resilience
FNS today announced $50 million in grants to 47 states and tribes to modernize and expand the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program at farmers markets, roadside stands and community supported agriculture programs. These grants will allow states to reach more eligible seniors by funding the $50 maximum benefit for up to 250,000 more eligible seniors, while expanding geographic areas served and transitioning to online training and electronic benefits transfer in some states.
01/31/2023
Blog
Your Market is Only a Few Clicks Away: Navigating USDA’s Local Food Directories
USDA’s Local Food Directories make it easy for customers to find fresh local foods through four local outlets. Recent updates have made the directories easier to use on the go, on your phone or computer. We’ve also launched a new directory for agritourism. As the platform continues to grow, here are a few tips on how to navigate this resource.
08/15/2022
Blog
Discovering Trends in the 2019 National Farmers Market Managers Survey
The 2019 National Farmers Market Survey conducted by the USDA’s AMS and the NASS collected data regarding the market practices of managers in 2019 from 10,000 farmers markets. Using trends and statistics found from these efforts, AMS and Wheaton College created five research briefs highlighting results from this survey and sharing insights into the trajectory for farmers markets into the future.
08/15/2022
Blog
Farm to School to Future!
We joined Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester at a school to celebrate National Nutrition Month, and learn about its innovative farm-to-school program developed with support from two USDA Farm to School grants. Program curriculum is integrated into many of the school’s 24 different tracks that students can take to build their future careers.
04/11/2022
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USDA Announces Actions on Nutrition Security
During a visit to Columbia University and in celebration of National Nutrition Month, Secretary Vilsack today announced a report detailing USDA's Actions on Nutrition Security.
03/17/2022
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USDA Modernizes the Thrifty Food Plan, Updates SNAP Benefits
USDA today released a re-evaluation of the Thrifty Food Plan, used to calculate SNAP benefits. As a result, the average SNAP benefit – excluding additional funds provided as part of pandemic relief – will increase for fiscal year 2022 beginning on Oct. 1, 2021.
08/16/2021
Blog
Celebrating National Farmers Market Week
The first week of August, farmers markets across the nation celebrate National Farmers Market Week, highlighting their role in supporting healthy communities, food systems and stimulating local economies.
08/02/2021
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SNAP Benefits to Increase in FY 2021
USDA today released its June 2020 Cost of Foods Report, announcing a 5.3% increase in the cost of the Thrifty Food Plan from last year. Based on this new update, beginning October 1, SNAP participants’ maximum monthly benefit allotment will be at the highest level in the history of the program.
07/29/2020
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FNCS Highlights 2019 Accomplishments
Deputy Under Secretary Brandon Lipps today highlighted the agency’s many accomplishments over the past year to leverage our nation’s agricultural abundance to ensure every American has access to wholesome, nutritious food, even when they face challenging circumstances.
12/19/2019
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Registration for First 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Meeting Opens
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in coordination with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), invites the public to register to attend the first meeting of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. The meeting will be held at USDA headquarters in the Jefferson Auditorium on March 28th and 29th. Registration for in-person attendance begins today and closes at 5:00 p.m. March 26, 2019. Please visit DietaryGuidelines.gov for registration details.
03/19/2019
Page updated: February 09, 2021