Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to frequently asked questions about ACDA including how to become a member, renewing your membership, networking opportunities and how to access exclusive food distribution training programs and resources.
About ACDA
What is the American Commodity Distribution Association (ACDA)?
ACDA is a non-profit, professional trade association devoted to improving the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Commodity Food Distribution Program. By forming a unique alliance of agriculture, industry, government and community members, ACDA has the advantage of a multi-faceted approach to resource development and education for all stakeholder groups. ACDA is dedicated to the growth and vitality of the USDA Foods distribution programs and serves as an active and unified presence throughout the food distribution community. Read more about ACDA.
What is the mission of ACDA?
The mission of ACDA is to strengthen the impact of domestic USDA food programs. ACDA members distribute nearly 2.5 billion pounds of domestically produced commodities annually to programs such as the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program, the Emergency Food Assistance Program, the Summer Food Service Program, the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, and the Child and Adult Care Food Program. Read more about ACDA.
How can I contact ACDA for more information?
Call (850) 480-733 or email info@commodityfoods.org for general inquiries.
ACDA Membership Benefits
How can I become a member of ACDA?
How can I become a member of ACDA? Complete an online membership application on our website. Read more about ACDA membership.
What types of membership are available?
ACDA offers four different membership levels and three membership tiers. Membership types include:
- For-Profit Organization: A for-profit organization as defined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
- State Government Organization: A state/territory agency having a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to distribute foods through USDA food distribution programs or a state/territory agency administering other federal nutrition programs. There may be multiple member agencies from each state/territory.
- Non-Profit Organization or School: An accredited K-12 school OR a non-profit organization as defined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Organization must be able to provide a copy of IRS determination letter.
- USDA Employee: Individual employed by the United States Distribution Agency (USDA).
How much does an ACDA membership cost?
The cost of membership differs depending on membership level and tier. You can find all membership costs n the online application.
What are the benefits of joining ACDA?
By joining ACDA, you will receive a voice in the only organization devoted entirely to the interests of USDA foods, professional representation before congress and other interested parties, access to the Association’s membership directory, reduced rates to the ACDA Conference, access to proprietary ACDA processing forms, state-developed RA WBSCM Training Guides, food distribution training programs, communication and connections with key industry leaders, and more.
Are there any requirements for joining ACDA? Can anyone join?
ACDA membership is open to association agencies that distribute USDA Foods; Agricultural Organizations; Recipient Agencies, such as schools and household agencies (Food Banks); Industry partners, such as food manufactures and processors; and Allied Organizations, such as nonprofit anti-hunger groups, and USDA employees.
How do I renew my ACDA membership?
ACDA membership renews annually at the start of the calendar year through the membership bundle administrator. This is typically the person who set up the membership for the organization, though the responsibility can easily be reassigned to someone else within the bundle. The bundle administrator will receive all renewal notices unless the renewal is not processed by the deadline in which case all bundle members will receive notice. ACDA offers two payment solutions, online and by check via invoice. Log in to your account and follow the prompts and choose to be invoiced (an invoice will be emailed to you) or follow the process to pay online.
Education and Resources
Does ACDA offer training programs or resources for members?
ACDA provides the ACDA Food Distribution Program, which is dedicated to empowering individuals with comprehensive knowledge of USDA Foods programs, as well as many webinars and training resources available online. Our goal is to enhance understanding at a high level, fostering informed decision-making and engagement to improve program operations and create a stronger community of professionals.
How can I find out about upcoming events and training sessions?
Learn about upcoming events and food distribution training programs on ourAre there any networking opportunities available through ACDA?
ACDA serves to connect industry partners and a diverse group of members by providing networking and service opportunities designed to establish and strengthen relationships, including our Annual Conference that offers more than 60 educational sessions and countless opportunities to connect.Is membership required to participate in or access training materials?
ACDA offers several free resources for the public but the food distribution training program, conference recordings and in-depth resources are offered as exclusive membership benefits.Have More Questions?
We are happy to answer any additional questions about ACDA membership and how you can join our cause to nourish the nation.