USDA Leaders Connect with Partners Across the Southeast Region

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Secretary Tom Vilsack, and Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) senior leadership visited the Southeast Region throughout this year to connect with our partners to discuss strategies to promote nutrition security for vulnerable families and children in need. From roundtable discussions, observing school and summer meals at partnership sites, to touring Food Banks and more, our leaders saw first-hand the great work and nutritional challenges throughout the region. Specifically, some examples of these visits took place during National Nutrition Month in March when USDA Secretary Vilsack toured Feeding Tampa Bay Food Bank in Florida. USDA Deputy Secretary Dr. Jewel Bronaugh observed students eating healthy school meals at Sanders Clyde Elementary in Charleston, South Carolina. USDA Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services Deputy Under Secretary Stacy Dean held a roundtable discussion with area Food Bank leaders at Dare to Care Food Bank in Louisville, Kentucky. She also met with SNAP Employment and Training programs, WIC partners, and others.

FNS Administrator Cindy Long visited several nutrition stakeholders in the region including the Atlanta Community Food Bank. These connections were opportunities for USDA senior leadership to acknowledge the critical roles FNS partners contribute in leading the way to a healthier future for all.