KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has cut two programs, saving over a billion dollars. But these savings come with significant consequences.
These programs provided funds to schools and food banks, allowing them to buy food directly from local farmers. With the funding gone, many farmers in East Tennessee are worried about losing key customers.
Farmer Kevin Murphy shared his concerns. "This is farmers losing a customer, sometimes a major customer," he said. Local produce can be pricier than what larger companies offer, making it harder for these farmers to compete without support from schools and food banks.
At Second Harvest, the team aims to maintain partnerships with local farmers while they work to feed underserved communities. However, they acknowledge that financial changes may force them to adjust their contracts. “It may affect some of those contracts, that’s for sure,” said Michael Torano of Second Harvest. Still, he reassures that they will continue to prioritize local purchases as much as possible.
The effect on schools remains unclear. The State’s Department of Education says the Local Food for Schools program was introduced during the pandemic to help farmers and ensure schools can provide meals. They are monitoring federal changes, promising that it won’t hinder food availability for Tennessee’s vulnerable kids.
As for local school districts like Knox County, they are still assessing the situation. Due to spring break and staff shortages, they do not yet know how these funding cuts will impact their food sources.
This loss of funding poses a larger issue. In the past, support for local agriculture has been crucial for many communities. Without it, farmers may struggle, and the local economy could suffer. Supporting local farmers not only helps sustain livelihoods but also promotes healthier food options in schools and communities.
For more on the importance of local food systems, you can check out resources from the USDA.
Check out this related article: How Funding Cuts Impact Helena Food Share’s Purchasing Power: What You Need to Know
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