FNS Documents & Resources

This memorandum includes questions and answers for state agencies and local program operators on flexibilities available under the child nutrition programs during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. 

This memorandum includes questions and answers on flexibilities available to TEFAP state agencies on the operation of TEFAP. These flexibilities may assist state agencies that administer TEFAP in continuing to provide food to people in need during the novel COVID-19 public health emergency.

FNS is extending a nationwide waiver to support access to nutritious meals while minimizing potential exposure to the novel coronavirus (COVID–19). This extension of Nationwide Waiver to Allow Meal Pattern Flexibility in the child nutrition programs, issued March 25, 2020, applies to the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Child and Adult Care Food Program and Summer Food Service Program. This waiver remains in effect until June 30, 2020.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act  provides $450 million in supplemental funding for TEFAP for FY 2020, with up to $150 million of the supplemental funding is available as administrative funds and the remaining amount will be made available as food funds. 

FNS is extending a nationwide waiver to support access to nutritious meals while minimizing potential exposure to the novel coronavirus. This extension  applies to the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Child and Adult Care Food Program and Summer Food Service Program.

This memorandum includes questions and answers intended to provide clarification to state agencies and program operators on the operation of the child nutrition programs during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) public health emergency.

This memorandum provides the information needed to conduct the FY 2020 reallocation of SAE funds.

With the recent passage of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to assist with the novel coronavirus public health emergency,  WIC received an increase in funding for the program as well as increased ability to provide states with the flexibilities they need to support mothers, infants and children that rely on WIC.

During an emergency situation such as the COVID-19 public health emergency, there are flexibilities available to TEFAP state agencies to assist them in continuing to provide food to people in need. Implementing TEFAP flexibilities can be achieved simply by submitting a written explanation (i.e., state plan amendment) to the FNS regional office for expedited review and approval.

In FY 2019, USDA provided $49.1 million to assist with the operational costs of the receipt, storage, and distribution of TEFAP Trade Mitigation Program foods, now referred to as Food Purchase Distribution Program foods.