USDA squeezes out $30M Thanksgiving boost for citrus growers and food banks

A federal purchase announced ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday is set to send a wave of fresh funding into citrus growers and food-assistance pipelines. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced plans to buy up to $30 million in domestic oranges, grapefruit, and mandarins—an infusion the agency framed as a way to manage surplus supplies while expanding access to fresh produce for families nationwide.

Secretary Brooke L. Rollins says the action aligns with the administration’s effort to support producers and strengthen nutrition programs. 

“President Trump is standing with America’s farmers, especially right now, while the farm economy recovers from years of neglect under the last administration. Certain commodities are experiencing a surplus, and USDA is ensuring these crops do not go to waste and instead go to Americans in need across the country,” Rollins says. “These fresh fruits will reach those in need, boosting healthier options for Americans at food banks across the country, all while benefitting American farmers facing unfair actions from foreign competitors.”

Florida citrus growers reap a sweet boost

Florida’s citrus sector, which continues to work through the effects of greening disease and recent hurricanes, welcomed the announcement. Florida Citrus Mutual CEO Matt Joyner said the move offers stability during a challenging period.

“Florida’s citrus growers have much to be thankful for ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. Growers applaud Secretary Rollins, the USDA, and the Trump administration for purchasing fresh citrus, which provides hope and stability as the industry continues to address the impacts of citrus greening and hurricanes,” he says. “Not only will this purchase support the Florida citrus industry’s recovery, but it will also provide fresh fruit to communities in need this holiday season.”

Allocation

Under Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935, the USDA can buy commodities from US producers for distribution through food banks and nutrition programs. The entity’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) plans to purchase $15 million in fresh oranges, $10 million in grapefruit, and $5 million in mandarins.

The fruit will be distributed through federal nutrition channels, including the Emergency Food Assistance Program, to strengthen supply chains and expand access to fresh produce for communities in need, according to the USDA.

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