USDA Cuts $3.4 Million in Vital Aid to State Food Banks: What This Means for Local Communities

NORTHAMPTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently decided to cut a $3.4 million funding that would have helped Massachusetts food banks purchase over 121,000 cases of essential food items. This is raising alarms among food security advocates and state officials.

Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll expressed her frustration, questioning how these cuts align with efforts to promote health across the nation. Andrew Morehouse, executive director of the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, highlighted that this decision equates to a loss of 185,000 meals, primarily impacting vulnerable groups like seniors, children, and working families.

Food banks statewide are already struggling due to rising food costs and ongoing supply chain issues. On March 27, the USDA informed the local education department about canceling the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) bonus food order, designed to support emergency food organizations during tough times.

The western Massachusetts food bank relies on USDA support for about 21% of its annual inventory, providing millions of meals to local communities. Morehouse had voiced concerns about potential funding losses before the announcement, stressing that cuts would hinder their ability to deliver needed food to those who rely on their services.

Additionally, the state education department received news of another funding cut impacting the Patrick Leahy Farm to School Program, which was set to provide over $384,000. These cuts weren’t explained, leaving state officials puzzled.

Governor Maura Healey criticized the federal government for denying food to families in need. She emphasized that Massachusetts food banks play a vital role in promoting food security, which also helps reduce medical costs and supports local economies.

The impact of these cuts is significant. There have already been substantial reductions in other programs aimed at supporting food distribution, such as a $500 million cut in the Local Food Purchase Assistance initiative. These programs help food banks acquire fresh, local foods and have previously been essential for schools and child care programs.

Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler expressed concern over the negative impacts on students and local farms. He stressed the importance of farm-to-school grants in providing nutritious, local food to students, underlining the broader impact on schools, farmers, and the local economy.

Local survival centers, like the Northampton Survival Center, report rising anxiety among clients as cuts affect food availability. Executive Director Heidi Nortonsmith noted that more community support is needed now than ever. Events like their upcoming food drive aim to mobilize volunteers and encourage food donations.

At the Amherst Survival Center, their annual Empty Bowls event will take place to help gather much-needed funds. The event highlights not just the need for donations but also fosters community engagement in tackling food insecurity.

As one expert noted, “At a time of rising food insecurity and potential threats to safety net programs like SNAP, these USDA cuts will have a major impact.” The voice for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts summarized the situation poignantly: “It’s shameful to take food away from those who need it most.”

In a time when the economy is tough for many, community support and federal assistance are crucial. Without them, local families will struggle further. The call for increased support for food assistance is urgent and necessary.

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