USDA Cancels Local Food Purchasing for Schools and Food Banks

USDA cancels local food purchasing programs, cutting over $1 billion in funding for schools and food banks nationwide. This decision would affect childcare centers, schools, and food aid groups that relied on government subsidies to buy food from local farms. 

What’s Been Cut?

1. Local Food for Schools (LFS) Program:
   
   • Schools and child care facilities will lose $660 million meant to help purchase local food.
   • More than 40 states had signed agreements for previous funding.
2. Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) Program:
   
   • Food banks and feeding organizations will no longer receive additional funding for 2025.
   • States were notified that funds would be unfrozen for existing agreements, but no new funding will be allocated.

Why Did the USDA Cancel These Programs?

A USDA spokesperson confirmed that the programs, created under the previous administration, “no longer effectuate the goals of the agency.”However, certain funds from past agreements will remain accessible.

The Biden administration has already expanded the efforts to improve the food supply chain beyond major food companies. The Trump administration has chosen to cut these subsidies while food costs continue to rise, which will put more pressure on food banks and educational institutions.

Impact on Schools and Families

With food prices increasing, school nutrition officials are struggling to afford healthy meals. Food banks are also seeing more demand as families turn to assistance programs to manage grocery costs.

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey criticized the move, stating that her state will lose $12 million in planned school meal funding. She blamed Donald Trump and Elon Musk, saying they have deprioritized feeding children and supporting local farmers.

What’s Next?

The cuts will take effect following a 60-day notification period. Schools and food banks will need to find alternative funding to continue their programs. Meanwhile, the USDA’s decision has sparked political debate over the importance of local food purchasing programs.

Source: Politico