Ben Tindall, Save Family Farming Executive Director, issued the following statement regarding the news that federal cuts are forcing the end of the USDA Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program:
“As the federal administration ends funding for the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program — a vital initiative that enabled farms to supply fresh, nutritious produce at wholesale rates to local food banks — the ability of families across our state to access affordable food will become even more challenging.
“Washington already faces significant food insecurity, particularly in areas like South Seattle and the South Region of King County, where food deserts limit residents’ access to healthy, affordable food. Food banks play an essential role in filling these gaps, ensuring equitable access for those most in need. The removal of this funding will create greater scarcity, place additional strain on food assistance networks, and harm vulnerable communities who rely on these services.
“These cuts are devastating to local farms and the infrastructure that supports them. This funding was a lifeline particularly to small farms across Washington state struggling against the odds to provide fresh food for their local communities. Losing this support will affect these entire communities, as the farms may not be able to survive the loss of income.
“Now more than ever, we must call on our state leaders to step forward and ensure that farms contributing to feeding our most underserved communities are protected and supported. Family farms, of all sizes, are essential partners in strengthening local food systems and combating food insecurity.
“Save Family Farming stands firmly committed to supporting our state’s farmers in their efforts to give back to the communities they serve. We will continue to advocate for programs and policies that ensure every Washingtonian has access to the healthy, fresh foods they deserve.”