Several programs that were established to help farmers provide surplus food to schools and food banks have been cut, leaving many farmers feeling frustrated. The programs, which were created as a response to disruptions in the food supply chain caused by the pandemic, were seen as a win-win situation for farmers and those in need of food assistance.
One of the programs, the Food Box program, was initiated by the USDA in 2020 and was considered a lifeline for farmers who were struggling to sell their produce due to closures of restaurants and farmers’ markets. The program provided funding for farmers to package their surplus food into boxes that were distributed to schools and food banks. However, the program was recently terminated, leaving farmers without a way to distribute their surplus food.
Farmers have been vocal about their displeasure with the decision to cut the programs, with many stating that it is not what they voted for. They argue that the programs helped them stay afloat during a difficult time and provided much-needed assistance to those facing food insecurity.
In response to the cuts, farmers are now left scrambling to find alternative ways to distribute their surplus food. Some farmers have turned to selling their produce at farmers’ markets or directly to consumers, but many are still struggling to find markets for their crops.
Overall, the decision to cut these programs has left many farmers feeling disappointed and concerned about the future of their businesses. They are calling on lawmakers to reconsider their decision and reinstate the programs to help both farmers and those in need of food assistance.
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