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The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is preparing to send out food packages to families in Louisiana impacted by Hurricane Ida.
According to KATC, the USDA approved a short-term plan to help those struggling for food in the aftermath of the deadly hurricane until they can determine a long-term solution.
Starting September 1, Louisiana officials will work with partners and local food banks to issue up to 800,000 food boxes to individuals in hurricane-affected areas as part of the USDA's Disaster Household Distribution plan. Each package will have about 25 pounds of USDA Foods, like canned goods, fruits, protein items, and other shelf-stable goods.
For more information on USDA Foods Disaster Assistance, visit their website here.
The news comes days after the agency allowed Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants to use their benefits to purchase hot foods through September 28.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack address the USDA's plans in helping people who are in immediate need for food.
"One of USDA's most important roles is to help Americans through difficult times, and none are so difficult as disasters like Hurricane Ida that threaten lives and destroy communities, along with the food systems they depend on to survive," said Vilsack. "I want everyone to rest assured that we are working with our state, local and federal partners to get food and desperately needed nutrition assistance to them when they need it most — and we will be there to assist in any way we can until the recovery is complete."