Florida Citrus Mutual, which represents citrus growers across the state, is sharing its thanks ahead of Thanksgiving for the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) intent to purchase $30 million in fresh oranges, grapefruit and mandarins.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the purchase Monday, saying President Donald Trump’s administration has authorized the purchase under Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935, to assist communities in need by distributing the citrus to food banks and nutrition assistance programs across the country. The purchase also helps producers, who have been suffering a decline in recent years.
“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 said. “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 Mutual CEO Matt Joyner praised the announcement, adding the major citrus buy to Florida growers’ list of things to be thankful for this year.
“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. 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,” he said.
The $30 million buy includes $15 million in fresh oranges, $10 million in grapefruits, and $5 million in mandarins.
The produce will go to nutrition assistance programs and food banks that operate The Emergency Food Assistance Program, a vital part of the country’s food safety net.
Florida Citrus Mutual represents more than 1,500 grower members and is the state’s largest citrus grower organization. The Florida citrus industry creates a nearly $7 billion economic impact and employs more than 32,500 people across the state working more than 208,000 acres.
