The Trump administration reportedly said it had determined this funding ‘no longer effectuates agency priorities and that termination of the award is appropriate’

Summary

The Trump administration cut over $1 billion in USDA funding for schools and food banks, citing shifting priorities.

The cuts impact programs supporting local farmers and feeding underserved communities, including the $660 million Local Food for Schools program and $420 million for food banks.

Governors in Massachusetts and Illinois criticized the move, calling it harmful to children, farmers, and food-insecure families.

The cuts, linked to Elon Musk’s cost-cutting DOGE initiative, sparked backlash as Congress considers further reductions to school meal programs.