Wow, there is a lot of food system news since our last newsletter—even just a month ago! Here’s a quick recap of what’s happening across Iowa:
- Federal Funding Cuts: Critical programs like Local Food for Schools (LFS) and Local Food Purchasing Assistance (LFPA) have lost federal support. That means Iowa farms will be getting $11 million less than they had planned for, making it tougher to bring fresh, local food to our schools and communities.
- Frozen Funds: Some federal funds remain frozen, putting certain farms’ projects at a stand-still and further straining their ability to innovate.
- Advocacy for State Support: In response, advocates are pushing hard for state funding of the Choose Iowa Purchasing Program. This investment is key to keeping fresh, local food flowing to schools, food banks, and families.
Your support as a consumer is vital—backing local food initiatives means keeping Iowa farms strong and ensuring our communities have access to nutritious, affordable food. Make a commitment today to shop and eat locally. Our food farms depend on it! Find a Cedar Valley farmer here.
Mallory DeVries, Board Member & Communications Committee; local producer