Cleveland Food Bank loses nearly $1 million worth of food as part of USDA cuts

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – According to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, they are closely monitoring recent developments regarding their USDA Commodity Credit Corporation food orders after more than half of the 30 loads of food currently on order, totaling around 553,000 pounds, have been canceled.

Nearly $1 million worth of food, including milk, eggs, and meat like chicken, pork, and turkey.

This food was scheduled to be received between April and July of this year. This is in addition to the nearly one million pounds of food from the LFPA program that will be eliminated at the end of June 2025.

Funding for Ohio Food Programs was reduced by almost 25% in the proposed State budget. These programs buy food for distribution by food banks statewide, including food purchased from Ohio farmers. We still have the opportunity in the State of Ohio House and Senate to get that funding restored, and we are working hard to do so with legislators on both sides of the aisle.

The Food Bank said this disruption comes at a critical time, as need remains high and food costs continue to rise. Last year, they served more than 424,000 people—nearly 25% of them seeking assistance for the first time. Continued, reliable USDA food deliveries are essential to meeting this demand and supporting families across our service area and the state of Ohio.

The Food Bank said they can’t adequately support their community without public support from both the federal government and the State of Ohio.

Last year, 46% of the food they distributed came from the State of Ohio and the USDA.

How can the community help to support our mission amidst the uncertainty? You can give help by:

-Supporting the Harvest for Hunger Campaign!! A donation of $1 can help to provide 3 nutritious meals to someone in need.

-Joining our Advocacy Network to get updates and learn how you can reach out to your elected officials and elevate the need for critical hunger relief programs

-Volunteering your time to ensure that healthy food gets to the people who need it most.

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