USDA Cuts $1B in School & Food Bank Funding: Millions of Children at Risk
The USDA eliminated two programs totaling over $1 billion in funding for schools and food banks to purchase locally sourced food. The cuts impact the Local Food for Schools and Local Food Purchase Assistance programs, eliminating funding for schools, child care facilities, and food banks. This decision comes amidst rising food costs and anticipated cuts to the SNAP program, prompting criticism from state officials and concerns about reduced access to meals for children and families. The USDA stated the programs, established under the Biden administration, no longer align with agency goals.