By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) has announced that two critical programs, the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program (LFPA) and the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program (RFSI), can no longer operate due to funding cuts by the federal government.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has stopped reimbursements for these programs, affecting farmers and food-insecure communities.
The LFPA program was designed to support local food systems by purchasing food from growers at fair market value and distributing it to communities in need.
In Illinois, 883 community sites have participated, benefiting 176 farmers—58% of whom are new farmers. Illinois had committed to sourcing 100% of products from socially disadvantaged farmers, with $43 million allocated for distribution. However, $17.8 million remains unpaid by the federal government.
The RFSI program aimed to strengthen the local food supply chain by offering better market opportunities for small and mid-sized agricultural producers. IDOA had planned to provide $6.4 million in grants to selected grantees, but the process is now stalled.
The USDA has informed states that only invoices for costs incurred before January 19, 2025, will be processed. Reimbursement claims submitted after this date are being rejected, leaving farmers uncertain about future funding.
Governor JB Pritzker criticized the decision, stating that the funding cut harms both farmers and food-insecure communities. IDOA Director Jerry Costello II emphasized that Illinois farmers rely on upfront investments, which are no longer feasible without federal support.
Dulce M. Quintero, Secretary of IDHS, also highlighted the impact on food security, urging the government to restore funding.
These funding cuts pose significant challenges to Illinois farmers and food programs, limiting access to fresh produce, meat, and other essentials for vulnerable communities.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Illinois, Government & Policy