The USDA has announced $1.13 billion in funding to support local and regional food systems, further advancing its Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) and Local Food for Schools (LFS) programs. This funding aims to help states, territories, and Tribal governments purchase and distribute locally sourced foods to food banks, schools, and, for the first time, child care facilities. Key allocations include $471.5 million for schools, $188.6 million for child care facilities, and $471.5 million for feeding programs, with $100 million earmarked for Tribal governments.
These initiatives aim to improve food security, strengthen local economies, and expand access to healthy, locally produced foods. Cindy Long, Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services, emphasized the importance of this funding, stating, “USDA believes that a healthier future for our country starts with our children. We are excited to build on these successful collaborations that connect schools and emergency food organizations with nutritious food from local farmers and producers by expanding the model to child care facilities for the first time. Families can feel good knowing their kids are eating food that was grown right in their own community.”
For more information on these programs or to apply, visit the USDA’s LFPA and LFS program websites.
Food Banks Get Help from Farmer’s Truck
Frederic LaForge, CEO of Farmer’s Truck, can help food banks seize the opportunity to launch or expand their mobile market program and bring fresh, healthy food to more communities. They help food banks secure the funding.
Farmer’s Truck provides support throughout the grant application process. They assist organizations in determining eligibility, developing a strategy to position programs effectively, and preparing and submitting grant applications. This opportunity can help organizations increase their impact and deliver fresh food to communities in need, with guidance available to strengthen applications and improve chances of success.
The Proof is in the Pudding: Community Food Bank of San Benito County
Locally, the food bank in Hollister is an example of the mobile pantry program in action.
In early 2021, the Community Food Bank of San Benito County introduced “Benny,” a Ford Transit truck serving as the home for the food bank’s mobile food pantry. Designed to bring fresh, healthy food directly to residents, the mobile food pantry plays a critical role in fulfilling the food bank’s mission of providing food with dignity. Operating during the week, Benny makes daily stops, offering convenience to individuals and families who might otherwise struggle to reach the food bank’s central location. Meeting people in accessible, familiar spaces like local parks can make a significant difference, especially for busy families or those facing transportation challenges.
The mobile food pantry also reduces barriers for individuals hesitant to seek help, addressing issues such as fear, shame, or discomfort. By providing food in welcoming, neighborhood settings, the program empowers clients to access what they need while preserving their dignity.The mobile food pantry serves a diverse range of clients, from working families struggling to make ends meet to those experiencing homelessness. Each week, Benny helps the food bank reach 380–400 additional families. As a pioneering “food truck” of its kind in California, the mobile food pantry embodies the food bank’s innovative approach to fighting hunger while fostering community connections. Read more about the mobile food pantry program at Community Food Bank of San Benito County.
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