The U.S. trade war with China benefiting local food banks

Several Arizona businesses have been affected by the trade wars including the agriculture industry. However, the trade war between the U.S. and China is benefiting local food banks.

The President and CEO of the Yuma Community Food Bank, Shara Merten said the food bank has been in limbo over the years when trade wars started.

This marks the second year of the ongoing war trade creating a surplus of products around the country.

“It has easily provided over 1-million pounds of food during a time period when we don’t get that type of food,” said Merten.

The food bank has received anywhere from seven to 10 truckloads of milk, bringing produce into this facility.

During the time when the product was not coming through the food bank, it had to partner with other companies outside of Arizona.

“To be able to do food drives that are great but their not consistent,” said Merten.

As the trade mitigation runs through March 2020, Merten said they are not in the clear just yet.

“Were in a good place right now, but the dollars are the bigger thing with the trade mitigation we still have to keep the lights on and staff paid,” said Merten.