The USDA is eliminating two programs totaling $1 billion in funding for schools and food banks to purchase food from local sources. This decision, attributed to a shift toward “fiscally responsible initiatives,” cancels $660 million for the Local Food for Schools program and $420 million for the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement. The funding cuts significantly impact schools already facing high food costs, forcing reductions in fresh produce and local sourcing. The termination affects numerous schools and farmers nationwide, jeopardizing both school nutrition and local economies.
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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.
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A temporary freeze on nearly all federal grants and loans, ordered by the Trump administration, jeopardizes numerous programs, including school lunch initiatives. Georgia Representative Rich McCormick controversially suggested that children work at fast-food restaurants instead of relying on these programs, arguing that it teaches valuable work ethic. This statement sparked outrage, with critics highlighting the absurdity of expecting young children to support themselves. The funding freeze faces legal challenges, though the president cannot unilaterally eliminate congressionally approved funding.
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House Republicans want to ban universal free school lunches – let that sink in for a moment. The sheer audacity and heartlessness displayed by these politicians is truly staggering. In a world where basic human decency should prevail, they are actively working to ensure that hungry children are denied access to a meal while they are at school. It’s incomprehensible how anyone could justify such a cruel and callous decision. But then again, when we look at the broader scope of the Republican Party’s agenda, perhaps it’s not so shocking after all.
The Republican Party’s priorities seem to lie in protecting the wealthy and privileged at all costs, even if it means sacrificing the well-being of our most vulnerable citizens – our children.… Continue reading
House Republicans Want to Ban Universal Free School Lunches
Growing up poor, school lunches were my lifeline, sometimes my only meal of the day. So, when I hear that House Republicans want to ban universal free school lunches, it strikes a chord deep within me. The idea of taking away something as basic as a meal from children who might not have another option is not only cruel but downright inhumane.
The Republican war on education seems to know no bounds. Instead of investing in our future by ensuring that all children have access to essentials like food, they are actively working to strip away the rights of our most vulnerable population.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood