1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

The USDA's decision to cut over $1 billion in funding for programs that help schools and food banks purchase food from local farms and ranches is deeply concerning. These programs have been instrumental in supporting local agriculture and ensuring access to fresh, nutritious food for millions of students and families. Cutting this funding will have far-reaching consequences for both the agricultural community and those who rely on these programs for food security. Maintaining strong local food systems is crucial for building resilient communities and promoting sustainable agriculture practices. By purchasing from local sources, schools and food banks not only provide economic opportunities for small farmers and ranchers but also reduce the environmental impact of long-distance transportation and promote transparency in the food supply chain. Furthermore, these programs play a vital role in addressing food insecurity and ensuring that children have access to healthy meals, which is essential for their growth, development, and academic performance. Cutting funding for these initiatives risks exacerbating food insecurity and undermining efforts to combat childhood obesity and diet-related health issues. Given the significant benefits of these programs and the potential negative impacts of their elimination, it is imperative that funding be reinstated and prioritized in future budgets. Investing in local food systems and supporting organizations that provide access to nutritious food is not only a matter of public health but also a matter of social and environmental justice.