TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to enter into an agreement with Los Angeles County to receive and distribute infant formula to families in need of infant formula who have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The nation has been experiencing a significant infant formula shortage. This shortage was due to COVID-19 supply chain issues, compounded by a large-scale product recall of Abbott infant formula. The impact of this shortage can cause potential short- and long-term health risks and developmental delays, which will most heavily impact infants and children born within high-need of services, and low-income families. This is considered a national food shortage emergency since some babies and children are dependent on formula for their day-to-day nutritional intake and hydration.
Los Angeles County (County) was able to secure formula to mitigate the supply shortage. Through this agreement, the Long Beach Health and Human Services Department will partner with the County to distribute infant formula to eligible families within Long Beach. It is anticipated that the City of Long Beach (City) will receive 1,000 cans of infant formula to be distributed to families who meet the qualifications set forth by the County. Basic qualifications include receiving Medi-Cal, being employed without insurance, enrollment in public assistance programs such as CalWORKs, Special Supplemental Nutritional Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), and those with Housing Choice Vouchers. Distribution is to be completed within 30 days of receipt of the product.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Gary J. Anderson and Budget Analysis Officer Greg Sorensen on July 6, 2022.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on July 12, 2022 to enter into the agreement and begin formula distribution expeditiously.
EQUITY LENS
City staff have incorporated the Equity Toolkit in this recommendation,...
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