(NAFB) – Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh Wednesday announced the establishment of a $400 million Dairy Donation Program.

The program aims to facilitate timely dairy product donations while reducing food waste. The establishment of DDP is part of the $6 billion pandemic assistance USDA announced in March and follows last week’s announcement of the $350 million Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program for dairy farmers. Under the DDP, eligible dairy organizations will partner with non-profit feeding organizations that distribute food to individuals and families in need. Those partnerships may apply for and receive reimbursements to cover some expenses related to eligible dairy product donations.

The program was inspired in part by the donations made by Michigan Milk Producers Association in conjunction with the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan in response to the Flint water crisis.

Deputy Secretary Bronaugh says, “Together we can help someone in need, minimize food waste and support the U.S. dairy industry.”