The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a groundbreaking $1.13 billion in funding aimed at strengthening local and regional food systems. This investment, unveiled on December 10, 2024, builds on the success of the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement (LFPA) and Local Food for Schools (LFS) programs, ensuring access to wholesome, locally sourced food for food banks, schools, and, for the first time, child care facilities.
Expanding Food Security for All
This funding is set to enhance the distribution of nutritious, locally produced foods through partnerships with states, territories, and federally recognized Tribes. Under the expanded LFS program, $471.5 million will be allocated to purchase local foods for schools participating in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. An additional $188.6 million will be dedicated to child care facilities enrolled in the Child and Adult Care Food Program.
Moreover, up to $471.5 million will go toward feeding programs serving underserved communities, including food banks and schools. Notably, $100 million is earmarked for Tribal governments to strengthen their local food initiatives.
“These programs expand on the prior achievements of USDA’s LFPA and LFS programs and carry them into 2025, assuring local farmers, families, and communities that they will continue to get the help they need,” said USDA Under Secretary Jenny Lester Moffitt.
A Stronger Food System
Initiated in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, LFPA and LFS programs have already invested over $1 billion to procure local foods for food banks and schools across the country. These initiatives have sourced foods from more than 8,000 local producers, over 5,000 of whom are underserved, and supplied nutritious products to nearly 7,900 food banks and pantries nationwide.
The benefits extend beyond food security. The collaborations between states, school systems, and local farmers have fostered new supply-chain partnerships, creating resilient food systems that support local economies. According to Cindy Long, Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services, this funding will also enhance child care centers’ access to locally grown foods for the first time. “Families can feel good knowing their kids are eating food that was grown right in their own community,” she said.
Supporting Farmers and Producers
The USDA’s continued investment demonstrates its commitment to fostering fair markets and expanding opportunities for small and underserved farmers. By purchasing locally sourced foods, these programs generate new revenue streams for agricultural producers while ensuring communities have access to fresh, nutritious meals.
How to Get Involved
Those interested in applying for this round of LFS, which now includes funding for child care centers, can visit the LFS website. Those wishing to participate in this round of LFPA can visit the LFPA website. Producers wishing to receive information about becoming a vendor for LFPA or for LFS should contact their respective state, territory, or Tribal purchasing authorities.
Building a Resilient Future
As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s focus on transforming America’s food systems, the USDA’s initiatives prioritize equitable access to healthy food, bolster local economies, and support sustainable agricultural practices. These investments are building a more resilient and inclusive food system—one that uplifts farmers, communities, and families across the nation.
To learn more about the USDA’s programs and initiatives, visit https://www.usda.gov/
See the original press release here