URBANA, Ill. (WICS) — The funding cuts by the Trump administration have resulted in the end of the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program and the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program in Illinois.
This decision has left farmers confused and concerned. Many relied on these programs for crucial support. Ed Bubrick, a co-owner of DuChick Ranch, expressed his deep feelings about the program’s impact. He shared a touching story about a father who felt more like a good parent because he could provide nutritious food to his children thanks to this program.
Ed and his farm supplied about half of their chicken and egg production to local food banks, including the Eastern Illinois Foodbank and Central Illinois Foodbank. Just days before the cuts, he had confirmed a delivery with one of the food banks. They were set to process the chickens, but then the funding stopped abruptly. This sudden change left farmers like Ed in a tough spot.
Amanda Borden from the Eastern Illinois Foodbank mentioned that the funding cuts will affect their mobile distribution program. Previously, they used to purchase fresh protein from local farmers, which helped them provide quality food to those in need. However, she assured that the food bank would find other ways to source fresh produce and nutritious meals for their community.
Governor J.B. Pritzker responded strongly to the funding cuts, calling them a significant blow to Illinois farmers and the communities they support. He emphasized that the decision harms not only the farmers but also the vulnerable populations that rely on these food programs for essential nutrition.
To address these challenges, the director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, along with farmers and food bank representatives, met with lawmakers to discuss the impact of these federal funding cuts and tariffs. The hope is to find new solutions that can support local agriculture and keep food on the tables of those in need.
Source link
Trump,Illinois,Food programs,Farmers,Food banks,Funding cuts,Local Food Purchase Assistance Program,Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program
