Governor Josh Shapiro, along with Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and bipartisan legislative leaders, gathered at Destiny Dairy Bar in Carlisle to address the termination of federal funding for the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) Program. The program supports local farms in supplying fresh produce to food banks across Pennsylvania.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently ended $13 million in federal funding for the LFPA Program, a decision that has prompted state officials to urge Congress to restore these funds. Representatives Eddie Day Pashinski and Dan Moul, along with Senators Elder Vogel and Judy Schwank, have expressed concern over the USDA’s decision, emphasizing its impact on food access and farmers.
Governor Shapiro highlighted the importance of the LFPA Program, which has benefited 189 farms and 14 food banks in Pennsylvania. “Pennsylvania farmers work hard every day to put food on our tables — and with Washington breaking its promise to them, we’re standing up for our farmers and food banks,” he said.
Since 2022, nearly $30 million from the LFPA has aided small and mid-sized farms in providing locally grown products to food banks. Agriculture is a significant part of Pennsylvania’s economy, contributing $132.5 billion annually and supporting 600,000 jobs.
The Governor’s administration has made several attempts to resolve the issue with USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins but is now pursuing legal action. Secretary Redding noted the broader implications: “This isn’t just a bureaucratic disagreement — it’s about real people, real livelihoods, and real meals for families who need them.”
Pennsylvania remains committed to using LFPA funds exclusively for in-state farms. As legal proceedings continue, state leaders are calling on Congress to ensure that funding is restored either through reversing the USDA’s decision or via appropriations.
The joint letter from Pennsylvania’s legislative leaders stresses collaboration across government levels to support agriculture as a cornerstone industry in the Commonwealth.
Information from this article can be found here.
