The USDA has made a shocking move. The agency is canceling over $1 billion in funding that helped schools and food banks buy local food. This decision affects millions of children, struggling families, and small farmers across the country. USDA Cancels Local Food Funding, leaving schools and food banks in crisis.

USDA Cancels Local Food Funding: What Just Happened?

The Local Food for Schools (LFS) program and the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) program are coming to an end. These programs helped schools and food banks buy fresh produce, dairy, and meat from local farmers. Now, that funding is gone.

Without it, schools may struggle to provide healthy meals. Food banks could find it harder to keep up with demand. Local farmers could lose a critical source of income.

Who Is Affected Now That USDA Cancels Local Food Funding?

1. Schools & Students

Many schools rely on this funding to buy fresh, local food. With budgets already stretched, losing this money means fewer healthy meal options. This could impact millions of students, especially those who depend on free or reduced-price lunches.

2. Food Banks & Low-Income Families

Food banks have seen record demand in recent years. They used these funds to purchase locally grown food, which helped feed those in need. Now, food banks will have to stretch resources even further.

3. Local Farmers

For small and mid-sized farmers, these programs were a lifeline. The guaranteed sales helped keep their businesses running. Without this support, many may struggle to stay afloat.

Why Did the USDA Cut the Funding?

The USDA claims the move is part of budget adjustments and a shift in priorities. Officials say they are focusing on other programs to improve food security. However, critics argue this decision will do more harm than good.

The Immediate Impact of USDA Canceling Local Food Funding

• Schools may cut fresh, local food from menus
• Food banks could run out of local produce faster
• Farmers may lose income, leading to higher food prices
• Millions of students and low-income families could suffer

Many school districts and food bank leaders say they were blindsided by the decision. They are now scrambling to find alternative funding sources.

What’s Next After USDA Cancels Local Food Funding?

Some states are looking for ways to fill the gap. Connecticut, for example, is considering a sugar-sweetened beverage tax to fund school meals. Other states may follow suit.

Meanwhile, advocacy groups and lawmakers are pushing back. Some are urging the USDA to reconsider. Others are looking for legislative solutions to restore funding.

What Can You Do?

If you’re concerned about this decision, here’s how you can help:

• Contact your representatives – Urge them to fight for local food funding.
• Support local farmers – Buy from farmers’ markets and local producers.
• Donate to food banks – Help them continue providing meals to those in need.
• Spread awareness – Share this information to keep the conversation going.

Final Thoughts

The USDA’s decision to cancel $1B in local food funding has far-reaching consequences. Schools, food banks, and farmers will all feel the impact. While the government claims it’s a necessary move, many believe it will increase food insecurity rather than solve it.

The fight for local food funding isn’t over. Stay informed, stay involved, and make your voice heard.