Governor Gavin Newsom is taking a stand against a recent decision by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to cut funding for California’s Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) Program. This program, established during the Biden administration in 2021, has been crucial in providing food for millions of families and supporting small farmers across the state.
In a statement released on Saturday, Newsom described the USDA’s decision as “irrational and malicious,” arguing that it would harm both farmers and families who rely on food banks. The California Department of Social Services has labeled the move as “unlawful” and is urging the USDA to reverse its decision.
The LFPA Program was designed to help diversify food supply chains, especially in the wake of challenges posed by the pandemic. Since its inception, California has received about $88.5 million, which has been funneled through food banks to support local and socially disadvantaged farmers. The state was expected to receive an additional $47 million this year, but the USDA’s recent announcement to eliminate the program has put those funds in jeopardy.
This sudden funding cut has left many farmers anxious about their future. With planting season underway, farmers are uncertain about what crops to grow. Ken Vang from Fresno BIPOC Produce expressed concern, stating, “Farmers have planted several crops just for the program because it meant guaranteed income for them. Now they are worried that their crops will not have a home.”
The impact of the USDA’s decision extends beyond farmers. Food banks, which have seen increased demand amid rising food insecurity, will struggle to meet the needs of families without this support. Becky Silva, director of government relations for the California Association of Food Banks, highlighted the dire situation, noting that some food banks are reporting a 150% increase in demand.
As California grapples with food inflation and rising costs, the timing of these cuts is particularly troubling. Grocery prices in Los Angeles rose by 2.5% over the past year, with further increases expected. Many families are already struggling to put food on the table, with more than a quarter of families with children facing food insecurity.
The USDA has not provided a clear explanation for its decision, prompting California officials to call for a reversal. The appeal letter argues that the termination of the program appears arbitrary and unjustified, urging the USDA to reconsider its stance for the sake of farmers and families in need.