Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Agriculture has announced that two key programs, the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program (LFPA) and the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program (RFSI), are unable to continue operations in Illinois. This follows a decision by the Trump Administration to cut funding for these initiatives. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) informed states it would cease reimbursements for any costs incurred after January 19, 2025, without providing an explanation.

The LFPA program was designed to enhance statewide food systems by using federal funds to purchase food from growers and producers at fair market value. This food was then distributed at no cost to communities in need. In Illinois, 883 community sites have benefited from this initiative, distributing food from 176 farmers, with 58% being new farmers as defined by the USDA. Notably, Illinois is committed to sourcing all products from socially disadvantaged farmers. However, $17.8 million remains outstanding from the federal government out of an approved $43 million.

The RFSI program aimed to expand capacity in the middle of the food supply chain for locally and regionally produced foods. It intended to provide better market opportunities and new revenue streams for small and mid-sized agricultural producers. The IDOA had been selecting grantees for this program, which was set to distribute $6.4 million in grant funding.

Governor JB Pritzker criticized the funding cuts: "Cutting funds for these programs is a slap in the face to Illinois farmers and the communities they feed." He emphasized that withholding grant funds harms not only farmers but also vulnerable communities relying on nutritious donations.

IDOA Director Jerry Costello II expressed concern over the situation: "This program requires Illinois farmers to invest in upfront input costs which is no longer possible given that the federal government has said they will no longer provide reimbursements."

Dulce M. Quintero, Secretary of IDHS, highlighted the broader economic impact: "Agriculture drives so much of the economy and innovation in Illinois - this loss in support for our farmers...is a loss for everyone in our state." She called on federal authorities to sustain support through established grant funding.