Critical USDA Funding Cuts Threaten Millions for Pennsylvania Farms and Food Banks Like Philabundance

Philabundance, the largest food bank in the Philadelphia area, is facing a tough challenge. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced it would end the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program. This cut means Philabundance will lose about $1.5 million, which is 18% of its budget for sourcing food.

Dorothy Wong from Philabundance shared, “This is probably one of the most significant reductions we’ve seen in a really long time.” Similar issues are hitting food banks across Pennsylvania. For example, the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank may lose nearly $2 million, leading to 500,000 fewer meals available each month.

Governor Josh Shapiro isn’t taking this lightly. “Pennsylvania farmers and food banks are owed $13 million, and I won’t stand by and let our farmers get screwed,” he said during a visit to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. This $13 million represents the funding the state expected to receive under a contract with the USDA.

The impact won’t stop with food banks. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture identified 189 farms that could be affected by the funding cuts. One of these farms is Living Hope Farm in Harleysville, managed by Sam Chronister. He lamented the loss, stating, “It’s a shame that this funding is being pulled away from small-scale farms and the mission of building a local food system.” Living Hope Farm focuses on growing various fruits and vegetables while also donating food to local pantries. Last year, they contributed over 3,000 pounds.

Chronister highlighted the importance of funding for small farms. “Around 20% of our operation comes from various grants,” he explained. “Every bit of money coming in matters, especially for small farms.” Without the LFPA funds, he and others may need to explore new ways to keep their farms operating.

The USDA described the LFPA as a pandemic-era program that needs to end to focus on more long-term, fiscally responsible initiatives. A spokesperson stated that the agency still maintains 16 other nutrition programs aimed at ensuring food security and supporting farmers.

The decision to terminate the funding has stirred debate. Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding criticized the USDA’s termination notice, suggesting that supporting local farmers and feeding people should be a federal priority. Shapiro has even called the termination “unlawful” and is considering legal actions to challenge it if necessary.

On social media, users have been vocal about these developments. Many express their anger and frustration over the cuts, reflecting a growing concern for food security and local agriculture’s future.

In summary, the cuts to the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program have significant consequences for Pennsylvania’s food banks and small farms. With rising food insecurity and challenges for farmers, these developments raise questions about priorities in federal funding. As the situation unfolds, affected communities will be watching closely for solutions and support.



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Trump Administration, United States Department of Agriculture, Philabundance, Food Banks, Josh Shapiro, Philadelphia