In a December 6th announcement, USDA will award up to $400 million in emergency food assistance to purchase local products for distribution in the event of a food emergency.  Eligible state and tribal governments can apply for funds through April 5th.  The intent is to provide food products to the needy as supplied by historically underserved farmers and ranchers to be consumed in a local area in the event of severe climatic event. As with a number of USDA  programs introduced since the advent of COVID it is hoped that there will be a plan and accountability for funds disbursed.