Disaster Assistance

Nothing is more important than providing food when people find themselves suddenly, and often critically, in need following a storm, earthquake, flood or other disaster emergency. USDA makes sure that people have enough to eat.

The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) coordinates with State, local and voluntary organizations to:

  • Provide food for shelters and other mass feeding sites.
  • Distribute food packages directly to households in need in limited situations.
  • Issue Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) benefits.

As part of the National Response Framework, FNS provides nutrition assistance to those most affected by a disaster or emergency.  When State agencies notify USDA of the types and quantities of food that relief organizations need for emergency feeding operations, FNS supplies food to disaster relief organizations such as the Red Cross and the Salvation Army for mass feeding or household distribution.  FNS also authorizes States to provide D-SNAP benefits.

More Information

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