By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced $1.13 billion in funding to bolster local and regional food systems. This initiative expands upon the USDA's Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) and Local Food for Schools (LFS) programs, now including funding for child care facilities.
Jenny Lester Moffitt, USDA Under Secretary, highlighted the program's goals - “These programs reaffirm our commitment to bolstering local economies, ensuring food security, and fostering resilient agricultural communities nationwide.”
The funding will enable states, territories, and Tribal governments to purchase and distribute locally produced, minimally processed foods.
Key allocations include $471.5 million for schools, $188.6 million for child care facilities, and $100 million dedicated to Tribal governments. These programs help underserved communities access nutritious food while creating new markets for local farmers.
Initially launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, the LFPA and LFS programs have already invested over $1 billion in local food purchases, benefiting more than 7,900 food banks and 8,000 local producers. These efforts have strengthened food supply chains and promoted healthier meals for children.
Families can feel reassured as Cindy Long, USDA Deputy Under Secretary, stated - “We are excited to build on these successful collaborations… Families can feel good knowing their kids are eating food that was grown right in their own community.”
To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National