USDA's $1.7 Billion Investment To Be a Game-Changer for Local Farmers and Families

Photo of a farming vehicle for illustrative purposes onlyPhoto byJed OwenonUnsplash

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has revealed a $1.7 billion investment aimed at purchasing locally produced foods for emergency assistance. This funding, facilitated by the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC), supports American farmers by providing them access to local markets and the financial advantages of selling directly to institutions. This initiative ensures that children and families in need receive nutritious food in schools, childcare facilities, and through emergency food providers.

“The investments USDA is announcing today provide immediate and long-term assistance to American farmers, families, and communities,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, in part.

This funding builds on previous efforts to improve local food systems, which have helped farmers find new markets and recover from supply chain disruptions, especially after natural disasters like Hurricane Helene.

Breakdown of the Investment:

• $1.2 billion for local food purchases by schools, childcare facilities, food banks, and other institutions.
• $500 million to acquire domestic commodities for emergency food providers.

Local Food Support

The USDA's $1.2 billion investment will help food banks, schools, and childcare centers incorporate local foods into their meals over the next year. This funding not only aids schools and food banks in meeting food demands but also opens new marketing opportunities for small- and mid-sized producers.

Among the funds:

• $500 million will support states, territories, and Tribal nations in buying local foods for emergency providers and underserved communities.
• $500 million is allocated for local food purchases in school meal programs.
• For the first time, $200 million will be designated for childcare facilities facing similar food procurement challenges.

These initiatives expand on the USDA's Local Food Purchase Assistance and Local Food for Schools programs, developed during the COVID-19 pandemic to strengthen relationships between producers and communities.

Support for Emergency Food Providers

The USDA will provide $500 million for purchasing domestic commodities for emergency food providers, including food banks and pantries. This funding complements nearly $2 billion already allocated in 2022 and 2023, allowing states to source American-grown commodities for emergency providers.

For more information, visit www.usda.gov.