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USDA Foods Program Disaster Manual

EO Guidance Document #
FNS-GD-2020-0131
Resource type
Training and Outreach
Guidance Documents
Handbooks
Resource Materials

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.

Page updated: June 20, 2024

The contents of this guidance document do not have the force and effect of law and are not meant to bind the public in any way. This document is intended only to provide clarity to the public regarding existing requirements under the law or agency policies.