Shapiro Fights USDA Cuts to Food Assistance

Monday, March 31, 2025

Governor Josh Shapiro recently addressed the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank in Dauphin County, where he voiced concerns over the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) decision to terminate a contract that linked food from 189 Pennsylvania farms to 14 food banks. Shapiro urged the USDA to reverse its decision and honor the contract, emphasizing that failure to do so would lead to further legal action to protect the state's farmers and ensure continued access to food for those in need.

The USDA's Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) Program, launched in 2021 with $400 million in COVID recovery funds, had been instrumental in supporting food distribution. The USDA renewed Pennsylvania’s contract for $13 million in December 2024, which had provided $1.8 million in support to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank over the past 15 months. Losing this funding would result in a significant shortfall in meals, impacting vulnerable populations, including children.

The USDA's reasoning for terminating the contract was that the program no longer "aligns with their priorities," a decision Shapiro criticized, particularly given the program's support for local farmers and communities. According to the USDA, the LFPA aimed to help farmers by expanding markets and focusing on those who have been historically underserved.

The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, representing 27,000 farmers, warned that the cuts would negatively affect nearly 200 local farmers. Amy Brickner, a small dairy farm owner, shared how the program had helped prevent waste and provided essential nutrients to those in need.

This move is part of broader cuts to food assistance programs, including a $1 billion reduction in food aid announced by the USDA. The cuts have raised concerns about the growing demand for food assistance, especially as food banks report an increase in need compared to the pandemic’s peak. Local leaders, including state Rep. Justin Fleming, have criticized the USDA's actions, calling it a step backward in addressing food insecurity across Pennsylvania and the nation.

Photo Credit: usda