The Secretary shall make competitive grants to eligible entities to carry out a seed distribution program to administer and maintain the distribution of vegetable seeds donated by commercial seed companies.
(b) Purposes
The purposes of this program include—
(1)the distribution of seeds donated by commercial seed companies free-of-charge to appropriate—
(A)individuals;
(B)groups;
(C)institutions;
(D)governmental and nongovernmental organizations; and
(E)such other entities as the Secretary may designate;
(2)distribution of seeds to underserved communities, such as communities that experience—
(A)limited access to affordable fresh vegetables;
(B)a high rate of hunger or food insecurity; or
(C)severe or persistent poverty.
(c) Administration
Paragraphs (4), (7), (8), and (11)(B) of subsection (b) of section
450i of this title shall apply with respect to the making of grants under this section.
(d) Selection
An eligible entity selected to receive a grant under subsection (a) shall have—
(1)expertise regarding the distribution of vegetable seeds donated by commercial seed companies; and
(2)the ability to achieve the purpose of the seed distribution program.
(e) Authorization of appropriations
There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.