This bill aims to significantly improve the infrastructure of emergency food organizations across the nation. It amends the existing Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP) Infrastructure Grants Program to direct funding to State agencies , rather than individual organizations, for more coordinated distribution. This change is intended to streamline the process and ensure resources are allocated effectively to support food distribution efforts. The bill specifically prioritizes grants for Tribal, low-income, and remote communities , expanding the focus beyond just rural areas. The amendments broaden the scope of activities eligible for grant funding, including support for the safe and efficient distribution of all types of food commodities, not just time-sensitive products. This includes expanding mobile and home delivery options , renovating facilities, and allowing up to 10% for administrative costs. To further bolster these efforts, the Act increases the annual authorization for the EFAP Infrastructure Grants Program from $15 million to $25 million for fiscal years 2026 through 2030. Additionally, the bill mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a national study within two years on the shortages of refrigerated and frozen storage space, as well as refrigerated vehicles, for emergency food organizations, appropriating $1 million for this report.
This bill aims to significantly improve the infrastructure of emergency food organizations across the nation. It amends the existing Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP) Infrastructure Grants Program to direct funding to State agencies , rather than individual organizations, for more coordinated distribution. This change is intended to streamline the process and ensure resources are allocated effectively to support food distribution efforts. The bill specifically prioritizes grants for Tribal, low-income, and remote communities , expanding the focus beyond just rural areas. The amendments broaden the scope of activities eligible for grant funding, including support for the safe and efficient distribution of all types of food commodities, not just time-sensitive products. This includes expanding mobile and home delivery options , renovating facilities, and allowing up to 10% for administrative costs. To further bolster these efforts, the Act increases the annual authorization for the EFAP Infrastructure Grants Program from $15 million to $25 million for fiscal years 2026 through 2030. Additionally, the bill mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a national study within two years on the shortages of refrigerated and frozen storage space, as well as refrigerated vehicles, for emergency food organizations, appropriating $1 million for this report.