The Biden-Harris administration has admitted to critical “mistakes” that have resulted in food shortages affecting Native American tribes and low-income senior citizens across at least eight states. The shortages, which began in July, have caused significant distress among some of the nation’s most vulnerable populations.

Tom Vilsack, Secretary of Agriculture, acknowledged that the crisis stemmed from flaws within his department, specifically pointing to a decision to award a contract to a single distributor, Paris Brothers Inc., to supply key food aid programs. This decision led to delayed and canceled deliveries, particularly impacting the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, which assists low-income seniors.

“We’re learning that our system was flawed, and mistakes were made,” Vilsack told Politico. He expressed regret over the stress and difficulties the situation has caused, emphasizing that the administration is now working to mitigate the impact as much as possible.

To address the ongoing crisis, the USDA plans to re-engage Americold, the previous distributor, for a temporary six-month contract, expected to start in the coming weeks. Additionally, FEMA officials have been brought in to expedite food deliveries, and there are plans to involve the Department of Defense once FEMA’s temporary assistance concludes. These corrective actions are anticipated to be costly for taxpayers.

Mary Greene-Trotter, director of the food distribution program for North Dakota’s Spirit Lake Tribe, described the situation as a “train wreck,” noting that essential food staples such as flour, meat, and canned goods have not been delivered since July. Tribes in North Dakota, South Dakota, North Carolina, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Minnesota, Oregon, and Washington have all been severely affected.

Vilsack revealed that senior officials were not involved early on when concerns were raised, which allowed the situation to escalate unchecked. “By then, we were dealing with circumstances, pretty significant, pretty serious, and supply chains, once they come unraveled, it doesn’t take much to unravel them, but it takes a great deal to get them back on track,” he said.

The admission of fault by the Biden-Harris administration comes as a reminder of the complexities and consequences of federal decision-making, particularly when it impacts the nation’s most vulnerable communities.