USDA Terminates $1B School, Food Bank Programs

The USDA has announced the termination of two significant federal programs totaling over $1 billion that supported local food procurement for schools and food banks, citing a shift to long-term fiscal responsibility. This includes the $660 million Local Food for Schools program and the $420 million Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement, which have been vital in providing fresh produce and local products to communities, particularly amid rising food costs. The decision has drawn criticism from various stakeholders, including schools, food banks, and local farmers who benefited from these programs. Many organizations, like the Kansas Food Bank and the Northern Illinois Food Bank, warn of increased food insecurity as a result of these cuts. The USDA claims these programs no longer align with their strategic goals, aligning with broader federal spending reductions. The impact is expected to be widespread, affecting millions of students and families who rely on these programs for meals and sustenance.