Kansas is amplifying its efforts to supply fresh, local produce to those in need. Recently, the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) teamed up with Harvesters – The Community Food Network in Topeka, celebrating the arrival of locally sourced food items.
KDA receives $2,500,000 from USDA for Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program, aiming to purchase and share Kansas-harvested and processed foods for an additional year.
Kansas Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Kelsey Olson praised LFPA Program's achievements, emphasizing connecting Kansas-grown products to communities and supporting residents and producers.
The LFPA Program serves a dual purpose – supporting food and agricultural supply chain resilience while tackling food insecurity. Last year, the KDA partnered with food banks like Harvesters, the Kansas Food Bank, and the Second Harvest Community Food Bank.
Their collaboration has led to the purchase of local dairy, meat, honey, and produce for families facing food challenges.
In the current year, food banks have connected with over 20 local producers, distributing almost 800,000 pounds of food across Kansas in the program's first season. Kansas Food Bank's Brian Walker reported reaching 75 of 85 counties through LFPA, addressing food inaccessibility issues in areas with limited fresh produce availability.
Chad Higdon, CEO of Second Harvest Community Food Bank, praised USDA and KDA's efforts in improving food security in Kansas.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-valentinrussanov
Categories: Kansas, General