The U.S. Department of Agriculture says it is ending two COVID-era programs that help schools and food banks purchase food from local suppliers and expand healthy eating options.

The USDA confirmed the cuts to News 8 on Thursday.

According to the School Nutrition Association (SNA), around $660 million in funds will be cut from the Local Food for Schools (LFS) and the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement (LPEA) programs.

SNA, a national advocacy group focused on advancing school meal programs, says that LFS supports local producers and assists schools and child care facilities in expanding fresh, local menu options.

LPFA functions similarly, providing food banks assistance to obtain goods from local providers.

The USDA told News 8 the programs will not end immediately and will continue operating until Sept. 30. A spokesperson said, “This isn’t an abrupt shift. Just last week, USDA released over half a billion in previously obligated funds for LFPA and LFS to fulfill existing commitments and support ongoing local food purchases.”

Ending the programs will suspend nearly $1 billion in federal spending. Government data shows Indiana will lose approximately $11.3 million in funds for school meal programs and local food banks.

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