(NAFB.com) – Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced USDA’s intent to purchase up to $230 million in fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables from American farmers and producers to distribute to food banks and nutrition assistance programs across the country. These purchases are being made through Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935 and will assist producers and communities in need. Fiscal year to date, USDA has provided more than $924 million in purchases, all which benefit the charitable feeding network. Rollins said in a statement, “The announcement continues to prioritize American commodities for families and communities in need. On the eve of the Great American Farmers Market, USDA is proud to play a role in not only connecting smaller, local farmers to families, but doing its part to Make America Healthy Again.” On an ongoing basis, UISDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service purchases a variety of domestically produced and processed agricultural products as authorized by Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935. These “USDA Foods” are provided to USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service nutrition assistance programs, including food banks.