This summer marks the end of a vital food support program for low-income Oregonians. The Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement (LFPA) program, aimed at providing fresh, locally sourced food, will cease operations due to recent federal budget cuts.
Under the LFPA program, states like Oregon received funds to buy food directly from local farmers, benefiting both producers and those in need. It connected small-scale farmers with community food banks, allowing for the direct delivery of nutritious food. Jesse Nichols, co-founder of CAMPO, a nonprofit farm in Hillsboro, described it as “a great program” that filled a crucial gap in food access for many families.
The program was especially helpful for smaller farms, which often have fewer funding opportunities than larger agricultural operations. “For small-scale farmers like us,” Nichols commented, “there are definitely fewer chances to receive government support.”
Sara Cross from the Oregon Food Bank noted that LFPA was unique because it focused on the farmers rather than just maximizing the amount of food distributed. This focus meant farmers were paid fairly, enabling them to invest in their businesses and community.
Since its launch in 2022, Oregon’s program has enabled 278 local farmers to deliver over $6.6 million worth of food. Many have expanded their operations or hired additional staff to meet community demands. However, funding has now been cancelled, and with it, many farmers are left scrambling for alternatives.
Recent statistics reveal that food insecurity is escalating, with more Oregonians depending on food banks as grocery prices soar. The Oregon Department of Human Services had expected additional funding of $4.7 million to continue LFPA past its initial deadline of September 30, but that funding was abruptly cut.
Nichols plans to continue supporting around 75 families despite the loss of LFPA. He highlights that rising costs for essentials like water and electricity make it harder for low-income families to keep up with their grocery bills. “The struggle is real for many people in our area,” he said.
While the Oregon Food Bank is exploring options to keep the spirit of LFPA alive, no concrete plans have emerged yet. The need for direct food assistance remains high, making the timing of these cuts particularly concerning.
An emerging trend on social media shows a growing community of advocates rallying support for small farmers and local food systems. More people are sharing stories about the importance of supporting local agriculture and feeding those in need.
As discussions about food security continue, initiatives like LFPA highlight the crucial link between local farms and community wellbeing. Addressing food access in a sustainable way will be essential in our ever-changing economic landscape. For more insights on food insecurity, check resources from the USDA or look at recent studies on hunger in America.
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Oregon | Food | Food And Farms | Farmers | Farming | Community | Hillsboro
