$670 Million Awarded by USDA to Farm, Meatpacking and Grocery Workers for their 'Essential Role' in U.S. Food Systems During Pandemic

The aim is to defray some of the costs incurred by workers relative to personal protective equipment, child care, and expenses for testing and quarantining.
The aim is to defray some of the costs incurred by workers relative to personal protective equipment, child care, and expenses for testing and quarantining.
(iStock)

USDA announced 15 groups will get $670 million in funds to farm and meatpacking workers that were negatively impacted during the pandemic, incurring expenses via the outbreak as they were deemed essential workers.

The funds would amount to $600 per person and start in the fall, USDA said. $20 million was also earmarked for a pilot program that would recognize the efforts of grocery workers.

The aim is to defray some of the costs incurred by workers relative to personal protective equipment, child care, and expenses for testing and quarantining.

Farm/meatpacking and grocery worker pilot program grant recipients:

Meatpacking

Farm, Grocery

“Please note that payments are not yet available and each organization may have application periods that begin at different times,” said USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service.

However, according to the announcement, these workers should be given the money from their organizations this fall.

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.