The Secretary may, on application of eligible entities, approve not more than 10 pilot projects to support public-private partnerships that address food insecurity and poverty.
For purposes of this section-
(1) the term "eligible entity" means-
(A) a nonprofit organization;
(B) a community-based organization;
(C) an institution of higher education; or
(D) a private entity, as determined by the Secretary; and
(2) the term "public agency" means a department, agency, other unit, or instrumentality of Federal, State, or local government.
Projects approved under this section shall-
(1) be limited to 2 years in length; and
(2) include a collaboration between one or more public agencies and one or more eligible entities that-
(A) improves the effectiveness and impact of the supplemental nutrition assistance program;
(B) develops food security solutions that are specific to the needs of a community or region; and
(C) strengthens the capacity of communities to address food insecurity and poverty.
The Secretary shall provide for an independent evaluation of pilot projects approved under this section that includes-
(1) a summary of the activities conducted under the pilot projects;
(2) an assessment of the effectiveness of the pilot projects; and
(3) best practices regarding the use of public-private partnerships to improve the effectiveness of public benefit programs to address food insecurity and poverty.
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $5,000,000 to remain available until expended.
Only funds appropriated under paragraph (1) in advance specifically to carry out this section shall be available to carry out this section.
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