7200 Reports Of Fraudulent Activities

Allegations of fraud in the TEFAP Program may come to the attention of legislators, SRS, the media, participating organizations or others.

Inquiries and information concerning alleged fraud by applicants/recipient should be directed to the Regional Director. Regional Directors shall determine whether SRS investigation is necessary. Regional Directors may investigate or they may request that the participating organization use application verification regulations or other available resources in order to investigate. In all situations where there is adequate documentation available to indicate a claim determination or other legal action is necessary, the Food Distribution Unit must be notified prior to any actions being taken.

Reports of improper distribution, sale or other misuse of USDA donated foods by participating organizations or businesses must be directed to the Regional Director. The Regional Director shall notify the Food Distribution Unit for discussion and coordination of appropriate investigation activities prior to any actions being taken.

7300 Reports Concerning Product Quality/Usability

Food products distributed through TEFAP for human consumption are to be of good quality and fit for human consumption. Unusual odor, taste or other characteristics that might indicate food products are not fit for human consumption should be reported immediately. These reports should be directed to the Regional Director. Immediate action should be taken to obtain information from the organization, recipient, or other persons reporting questionable product quality or fitness. The Food Distribution Unit must be contacted in order to determine and coordinate further necessary actions.

7400 Appeals

Applicants/recipients have the right to disagree with the denial of eligibility for TEFAP. Applicants/recipients wishing to request reconsideration of the denial of their eligibility for participation in TEFAP should be directed to contact the Regional Director. Regional Directors will review the denial reasons, the related Commodity Manual Sections, and the circumstances surrounding the denial. Regional Directors shall uphold or reverse the denial decision and notify the applicant accordingly.

Requests for the review of SRS claim determinations, and/or reconsideration of Regional Director decisions shall be forwarded to the Food Distribution Unit for review. The Food Distribution Unit may receive assistance from USDA in resolving issues in which TEFAP policy is unclear.