Access to nutritious food is a fundamental right, and in my area, various programs and initiatives are in place to ensure everyone has this access. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plays a critical role in overseeing many of these food programs. It’s essential to understand the USDA’s non-discrimination policy to ensure fair and equal access to Food In My Area and across the nation.
The USDA is committed to ensuring that all individuals have equal access to its programs, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. This commitment is grounded in federal civil rights law and USDA regulations, designed to protect everyone seeking assistance from USDA-supported programs. This means that when you are looking for food in my area through USDA programs, you are protected from discrimination.
Program information from the USDA is designed to be accessible to everyone. For individuals who require program information in languages other than English, the USDA works to provide materials in multiple languages. Furthermore, for persons with disabilities who need alternative means of communication—such as Braille, large print, audiotape, or American Sign Language—to access program details, resources are available. These individuals are encouraged to contact the state or local agency administering the specific program or reach out to USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or via the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. This ensures that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can learn about and benefit from food programs in my area.
If you believe you have been discriminated against when trying to access food in my area through a USDA program, you have the right to file a complaint. To do so, you should complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form AD-3027. This form is accessible online and can be downloaded from the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form. You can also obtain this form from any USDA office or by calling (866) 632-9992.
Alternatively, you can file a complaint by writing a letter to the USDA. This letter must include your name, address, telephone number, and a detailed description of the discriminatory action you experienced. Be sure to include enough information for the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) to understand the nature and date of the alleged civil rights violation.
Submit the completed Form AD-3027 or your letter to the USDA through one of the following methods:
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Mail:
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 -
Fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442
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Email: [email protected]
The USDA is an equal opportunity provider, and this principle extends to all food resources in my area that are supported by USDA programs. Understanding your rights and the USDA’s non-discrimination policies is crucial for ensuring fair access to food for everyone in our communities.
