JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has halted more than $1 billion in funding, and Mississippi food banks will feel the impact.

The cuts target programs that help food banks and schools buy fresh foods from local farmers.

The USDA’s Local Food Purchase Assistance Program connects underserved communities to locally grown produce, seafood and meat. Mississippi has received $6.8 million from this program since it since it was created during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are already in discussions with them about the different programs that they have on their mind for the future and expanding access to produce. And so, we’re excited about that. Our farmers’ growing season really kicks off, you know, really April, May, June, and it’s pretty much played out through July. So, I think we’ll be good for this year. That’ll give us some, some time to work on some new ideas after July,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson (R-Miss.).

The program will continue funding through July 2025. Afterwards, food banks may have to find new ways to fill the gap.