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USDA Commodities

The U.S. Department of Agriculture makes commodity foods available to State Agencies.  States provide the food to local agencies that they have selected, usually food banks, which, in turn, distribute the food to soup kitchens and food pantries that directly serve the public.

These organizations distribute the commodities for household consumption or use them to prepare and serve meals in congregate setting.  Recipients of food for home use must meet income eligibility criteria set by the States.  States also provide the food to other types of local organizations, such as community action agencies, which distribute the foods directly to needy households.