The Shapiro Administration is challenging the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) decision to terminate the Local Food Purchasing Assistance (LFPA) Program, which provided funding to Pennsylvania farms supplying produce to local food banks. Governor Josh Shapiro has directed Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding to appeal the USDA's termination of a $13 million contract that supported 189 farms and 14 food banks across the state.
Governor Shapiro announced the appeal after a roundtable discussion with farmers and food bank leaders. The LFPA program, which had distributed over $28 million in federal funding in the past two and a half years, was crucial for providing fresh, local food to food banks. The USDA's abrupt cancellation of the contract has raised concerns about increased financial strain on Pennsylvania farmers and food banks.
The termination of the LFPA program has significant implications for food banks, such as the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, which faces a loss of $120,000 per month, equating to 500,000 fewer meals for hungry Pennsylvanians. Joe Arthur, CEO of the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, expressed gratitude to Governor Shapiro for addressing the issue, emphasizing the importance of the program for families and the local economy.
Governor Shapiro remains committed to supporting Pennsylvania's agricultural sector and food systems. If the USDA does not reverse its decision, the state is prepared to pursue further legal action to ensure continued support for farmers and uninterrupted food access for residents. PACast reports that the Governor's 2025-26 budget proposal includes increased support for programs connecting low-income residents with healthy, local food.