Prairie State Wire

Governor JB Pritzker has announced the allocation of $14.7 million in federal grants to extend Illinois' Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) beyond June 30, 2025. This funding will be distributed among the 15 providers previously announced in 2024.

The LFPA was initially launched as the Illinois - Equitable Access Towards Sustainable Systems (IL-EATS) program in 2022 by the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) and the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). The initiative aims to transform the food system by enabling lead agencies such as food banks and non-profit organizations to purchase food from underserved farmers at fair market value. This food is then distributed at no cost to communities facing food insecurity, with a focus on providing culturally responsive fresh foods.

"The continuation of this vital program ensures that those at both ends of Illinois' food chain - historically underserved farmers and vulnerable communities - receive the support they need and deserve," stated Governor JB Pritzker. He acknowledged the role of federal partners, IDOA, and IDHS in dispersing these funds to support local farmers while addressing overlooked community needs.

Since its inception, Illinois has committed to sourcing all LFPA products from socially disadvantaged farmers, growers, and producers. Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton emphasized agriculture's importance in Illinois: "In a state where Agriculture is our number one industry, no one should have to wonder where their next meal is coming from."

Jerry Costello, IDOA Director, highlighted the economic benefits: "This innovative program creates new markets for farmers and pays fair market value for their products, which bolsters the economy and ultimately strengthens the food supply chain in Illinois." He expressed gratitude towards Governor Pritzker and USDA for extending this cooperative agreement.

Dulce M. Quintero, IDHS Secretary Designate, added that "Illinois families should have access to nutritious, culturally responsive food," noting that this program enhances equitable access to locally grown fresh produce by under-utilized farmers in underserved areas.

For more information about LFPA, visit extension.illinois.edu/il-eats.