The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a $1.13 billion investment aimed at bolstering local and regional food systems. This initiative builds on previous investments in the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement (LFPA) and Local Food for Schools (LFS) programs.

The funding, initially announced on October 1, is designated for states, territories, and federally recognized Tribes to procure locally produced foods for distribution within their communities. The beneficiaries include emergency food providers, schools, and child care centers. Those interested in participating can visit the respective websites for LFS and LFPA or contact state, territory, or Tribal purchasing authorities for more information.

“These programs expand on the prior achievements of USDA’s LFPA and LFS programs and carry them into 2025,” stated USDA Under Secretary Jenny Lester Moffitt. She emphasized the commitment to supporting local economies and ensuring food security nationwide.

Cindy Long, Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services at USDA, highlighted the focus on children’s health: “USDA believes that a healthier future for our country starts with our children.” She noted the expansion of collaborations to include child care facilities.

USDA will distribute up to $471.5 million to states and territories for purchasing domestic foods used by schools in national meal programs. An additional $188.6 million is allocated for child care facilities under similar guidelines. Furthermore, up to $471.5 million will support local feeding initiatives through various organizations reaching underserved communities; $100 million of this will be directed towards Tribal governments.

Since their inception as a response to COVID-19 challenges, LFPA, LFPA Plus, and LFS have invested over $1 billion in local food purchases across numerous regions including 50 states and several territories. These efforts have involved sourcing from over 8,000 local producers with many identified as underserved.

Today’s funding announcement continues these efforts by providing an additional financial boost aimed at sustaining local agriculture along with school-based feeding programs.

The USDA's broader mission under the Biden-Harris Administration includes transforming America’s food system towards resilience through fairer markets while ensuring access to nutritious food nationwide.

For further details about USDA initiatives visit www.usda.gov.