How Cutting Local Food Funding Hurts Our Communities: The Hidden Consequences

Recently, we gathered at a CT Foodshare press conference with Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy to discuss the surprising end of two essential USDA programs: the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and the Local Food For Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFSP).

These programs were vital for food banks and schools, enabling them to source food directly from local farmers. This connection not only improved food access in communities but also supported local agriculture.

Initially launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, these programs aimed to strengthen local food systems. Back in 2021, the USDA, using funding from the American Rescue Plan, distributed $1 billion in grants. This helped food banks, schools, and distribution hubs buy fresh produce and goods from over 8,000 local farmers. The programs gave small farmers direct market access, which played a crucial role in boosting community health and supporting local economies.

These initiatives were more than just economic measures; they were about improving health and well-being. They provided small farms with essential financial support. Recognizing their success, President Biden had aimed to continue this momentum with a $1.1 billion investment for 2024 to further enhance local food systems. Farmers and food service directors were looking forward to this funding, having already invested in preparation for the upcoming season.

However, on March 7, state agencies were informed that the $1.1 billion follow-up funding was abruptly cut due to shifting priorities and cost-saving measures. This sudden change differs drastically from the earlier push to support local food programs.

Renee Giroux, a farmer and founder of the Northwest Connecticut Food Hub, expressed deep concern. “This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about real people, real farms, and real families,” she said. “With food insecurity rising and local farms struggling, we should be strengthening these programs, not eliminating them.”

The cut stands to eliminate $9.3 million earmarked for strengthening local agriculture and improving food security for students and families across Connecticut.

Let’s break down the potential impact:

• The LFPA aimed to connect Connecticut farms with food pantries and had received $6.7 million from the USDA with expectations for an additional $3.7 million.
• CT Foodshare was initially granted $3 million, anticipating $1 million more to help provide fresh local food to pantries statewide.
• The LFSP had allocated $1.873 million from 2022 to 2025, with plans for $5.6 million more, specifically targeting K-12 schools and early childhood education centers.

Ashley Carl, Director of Food and Nutrition Services in Plainville, pointed out the significance of this funding: “Without the LFSP, maintaining a diverse range of local offerings within our budget would be challenging.”

With food insecurity affecting one in eight residents in Connecticut, including one in six children, the need for local food initiatives is more pressing than ever. According to a recent survey by the Connecticut Food Bank, food insecurity rates have surged, making the need for robust food systems clear. The cancellation of these programs risks leaving many without access to fresh, nutritious meals.

As concerns over food access grow, it’s essential to understand the impact of these decisions. The future health of communities, local economies, and small farmers hangs in the balance. Now is the time to advocate for policies that support sustainable food systems. Ensuring that every student has access to nutritious food while bolstering local farms should be a top priority.

Learn more about the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program (LFPA) and the Local Food for Schools Program (LFSP) to understand how these initiatives have impacted our communities.

Food security advocates like us at Greenwich Food Alliance call for action. It’s crucial to communicate with your representatives and stress the importance of reinstating these programs to support our communities and local farmers. Together, we can strive for a future where everyone has access to healthy, local food.

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