USDA Terminates $660M Program for Local Foods in Schools and Child Care

The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service has officially terminated the second round of the Local Food for Schools and Child Care (LFSCC) program, which was set to provide $660 million to state agencies over the next three years for schools and child care centers to purchase local food. Mississippi had planned to apply and was set to receive $5,024,343 for K-12 schools and $2,459,241 for early childcare centers—totaling $7,483,485 in potential funding. This investment would have strengthened our economy, supported local Mississippi farmers, and helped schools provide high-quality food while managing rising costs. We need stronger support for our local economy and improved access to fresh, local food. Speak up for local food in schools and child care—read the National Farm to School Network’s blog to learn more and take action today.