The Commodity Distribution Unit (CDU) is required to conduct on site reviews of RAs including their centralized warehouses or supply storage areas.
The Commodity Distribution Unit (CDU) Social Services Inspectors, referred to as "reviewers," conduct commodity compliance reviews to determine the recipient agencies (RAs) compliance with eligibility criteria, food ordering procedures, storage practices, inventory controls, reporting and record keeping requirements and civil rights requirements.
All categories are subject to these reviews with a scheduled frequency of at least one review every four years for each recipient agency (RA). The inspectors attempt to conduct reviews at least 25 percent in each category on an annual basis. The frequency may be more than one review in a four-year period. The inspectors will also conduct follow up visits to monitor compliance with corrective action plans for those recipient agencies (RAs) who had “findings.” Failure to respond to the findings letter the programs administrator sends after a review could result in the removal from the program. Failure to comply with the corrective action plan could also result in removal from the program.
When visits are required due to losses, reviews may also be conducted at that time.
Investigators also respond to all complaints alleging fraud, misuse of commodities and other referrals indicating suspected irregularities associated with the distribution or use of USDA donated foods.
The Social Service Inspectors also provide training and technical assistance as needed and requested. The OKDHS Commodity Distribution Unit Social Service Inspectors are Pamela Dean, Donna Chasenah and Christopher Pyle.