Local Food Programs Face Sudden End

Apr 15, 2025
By Farms.com

Local Food Program Cuts Disappoint Farmers

Two USDA programs that brought fresh, local food to schools and food banks have been cancelled, causing concern among farmers and food security advocates. The Local Food for Schools and Local Food Purchase Assistance programs were launched in 2022 to support local producers and provide healthy meals.

In Clear Lake, Iowa, school cafeterias used these funds to offer locally sourced fruits, vegetables, and meats. Food service director Julie Udelhofen hoped to expand into local beef and chicken purchases. She described the program as a great benefit for students and farmers alike.

However, the USDA announced in March that the programs were non-essential and part of emergency COVID-era spending. This ended hopes for an upcoming $1.2 billion extension.

The impact is widespread. Missouri farmer Liz Graznak had expanded operations based on these programs, contributing to a quarter of her annual sales. She now faces staffing cuts and financial losses. In Nebraska, producer Kyle Lammers may lose school clients he worked hard to supply.

Food banks are also hit hard. In Iowa, Missy Loux of the First Lutheran Food Pantry said the funding helped deliver fresh produce and milk to nearly 1,000 people monthly. Demand is rising, but support is declining.

Despite the setback, organizations like Food Bank for the Heartland plan to continue working with local growers. Many in the agriculture sector hope similar support programs will be introduced again soon.

These efforts have shown the value of building sustainable, regional food systems that benefit both producers and communities.

Photo Credit: usda

Video: Fendt Testimonial | Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 | Peter Watson Jones Ltd.

What happens when a farm buys its first Fendt? For Peter Watson Jones Ltd, the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 has exceeded expectations from day one. For Jack, Farm Manager at Peter Watson Jones Ltd in North Shropshire, UK, the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 wasn't just another tractor purchase. It was the farm's first experience with the Fendt brand.

Operating across a 1,200-acre arable farm alongside a 250,000-head broiler enterprise, the business has evolved significantly over the last decade, moving to a straight arable system with fewer staff and machines. Since arriving on the farm, the Fendt 726 Vario has established itself as the main drilling and cultivations tractor, earning its place through performance, versatility and efficiency. Whether it's handling large-scale cultivations or working with a new 4.5m strip-till drill, the tractor continues to impress.

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?? Watch as Jack shares why the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7, the farm's first Fendt, has made such a strong impression and become an integral part of their operation.