News

USDA uses CCC funds for international food aid

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack will make $2.3 billion available for international food aid through the Commodity Credit Corporation.

CCC funds are used to implement specific programs established by Congress and are managed by a board of directors with the secretary of agriculture serving as the chairperson of the board.

The aid was granted following a request made by Senate Agriculture Committee leaders.

USDA says $1.3 billion will be used for the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program and to help specialty crop industries diversify export markets. Another $1 billion will help address global hunger.

Agricultural groups including the U.S. Meat Export Federation, the National Milk Producers Federation, National Association of Wheat Growers, American Soybean Association and others issued statements of appreciation following the announcement.