In a recent decision, the USDA has stopped funding for two important programs in Illinois: the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program (LFPA) and the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program (RFSI).
The Illinois Department of Agriculture announced that these programs can no longer operate due to funding cuts from the Trump Administration. The USDA has notified states that it will no longer reimburse costs incurred after January 19, 2025, without further explanation.
The LFPA aimed to strengthen the food system in Illinois. It used federal funds to buy food from local farmers, which was then given to communities in need. So far, around 883 community sites have distributed food sourced from 176 farmers, with 58% classified as new farmers by USDA standards. Illinois is unique in its commitment to purchasing 100% of its food from socially disadvantaged farmers. Despite being set to receive $43 million under this program, $17.8 million is still pending.
The RFSI program was designed to boost the local food supply chain and create new market opportunities for small to mid-sized agricultural producers. IDOA had been selecting grantees for this program, which intended to provide $6.4 million in grants.
However, with the recent USDA announcement, reimbursement claims for expenses after January 19, 2025, are being rejected without clear reasons or timelines for when funding might resume.
Governor JB Pritzker expressed strong concerns over this funding cut, stating, “This decision is a slap in the face to Illinois farmers and the vulnerable communities that depend on them.” He emphasized the ripple effects on food-insecure communities relying on essential food resources.
Jerry Costello II, Director of IDOA, pointed out that farmers had been investing their own money for upfront costs in the program, making it unsustainable without federal support. “Without this funding, we can no longer sustain the local food systems we’ve worked hard to build,” he said.
Dulce M. Quintero, Secretary of IDHS, highlighted the significant role agriculture plays in Illinois’ economy and innovation. She called for the federal government to reconsider its decision and reinstate funding to ensure access to nutrition as a basic human right.
