Federal Surplus Commodities Corporation

Surplus Commodities - NARA - 195893

Federal Surplus Commodities Corporation (FSCC) was a United States government agency established in 1933 as part of the New Deal program initiated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to combat the Great Depression. The FSCC played a crucial role in stabilizing prices and supporting agricultural communities by purchasing and distributing surplus agricultural products. This article provides an overview of the FSCC, its historical context, operations, and impact on American society.

History

The FSCC was created against the backdrop of the Great Depression, a period marked by economic hardship, widespread unemployment, and agricultural overproduction. The agency was part of a broader effort under the New Deal to provide relief, recover the economy, and reform financial systems. The FSCC's primary mission was to reduce agricultural surplus and support farmers by purchasing excess goods, which were then distributed to relief agencies and organizations assisting the needy.

Operations

The operations of the FSCC involved purchasing surplus agricultural commodities from farmers at designated prices to stabilize the market. These commodities included a wide range of products such as grains, dairy products, and canned fruits and vegetables. Once purchased, the commodities were distributed through various channels, including schools, nonprofit organizations, and other relief agencies. This not only helped in stabilizing prices and providing income to farmers but also in addressing hunger and malnutrition among the nation's poor.

Impact

The impact of the FSCC was multifaceted. Economically, it provided crucial support to the agricultural sector by stabilizing prices and ensuring farmers received a fair income for their produce. Socially, it played a significant role in alleviating hunger and improving nutrition among the most vulnerable populations during the Great Depression. The distribution of surplus commodities laid the groundwork for future food assistance programs in the United States, including the National School Lunch Program and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Legacy

The legacy of the Federal Surplus Commodities Corporation is evident in the evolution of food assistance and agricultural support programs in the United States. The FSCC was succeeded by the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) and other agencies that continue to play a vital role in supporting American agriculture and providing food assistance to those in need. The FSCC's innovative approach to addressing both agricultural surplus and food insecurity has left a lasting impact on federal policy and programs.

See Also

• New Deal
• Great Depression
• Commodity Credit Corporation
• National School Lunch Program
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program