1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

The USDA's decision to cancel $11 million in federal funding for North Carolina food banks will have a devastating impact on food security and local economies across the state. This funding through the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program allowed food banks to directly support farmers by purchasing fresh, locally-grown produce for distribution to those facing hunger. With the loss of these funds, food banks like the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, which would have received $2 million, will struggle to meet the rising demand for food assistance in their communities. This move jeopardizes both food access for vulnerable populations and economic opportunities for farmers. I urge you to reconsider this decision and reinstate funding for this vital program. Supporting local agriculture and ensuring all North Carolinians have reliable access to nutritious food should be a top priority. Investing in initiatives like the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program upholds these values while strengthening regional food systems. Please take action to protect this critical funding stream for the benefit of our state's food banks, farmers, and residents facing hunger.