USDA cutting millions of dollars that Minnesota schools, child care centers and food banks used to buy local food

The U. S. Department of Agriculture's recent decision to terminate two pandemic-era funding programs is projected to cost Minnesota approximately $18 million in federal support for schools, child care centers, and food banks. This move aligns with the Trump administration's strategy to significantly cut federal spending, impacting critical nutrition initiatives. The eliminated programs, which allowed local entities to purchase food directly from farmers, were designed to enhance food security and support local agricultural markets.

The School Nutrition Association has voiced strong concerns, warning that these cuts could deprive millions of children of access to free school meals at a time when food costs are escalating for working families. Minnesota’s Deputy Agriculture Commissioner emphasized the positive outcomes of these programs, referring to them as "beautiful" and highlighting their potential impact on local communities. While the USDA claims that existing robust nutrition programs will suffice, critics fear that the cuts will lead to increased food insecurity among vulnerable populations. The agency's spokesperson reiterated a commitment to fiscal responsibility, but advocates argue that the loss of funding undermines essential services. As the USDA moves forward with these changes, the implications for Minnesota's educational and nutritional landscape remain a pressing concern.