How Sacramento's Food Systems Are Adapting to Significant Federal Funding Cuts

In Yolo County, residents facing food insecurity can access Yolo Food Bank’s approximately 60 monthly distributions at 21 sites, receiving fresh produce, dairy, meat, and essential nonperishables nearly year-round. "We feed about one-third of our population," states Karen Baker, the Yolo Food Bank’s executive director, while acknowledging that another third are likely on the edge of food security. The food bank collaborates with 62 nonprofits, including UC Davis Pantry and Meals on Wheels, serving 30,000 households in the county, where nearly 30% are food insecure. Baker emphasizes the pressing demand for fresh produce, indicating each family receives a substantial grocery amount. The food bank relied partially on funding from the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program (LFPA), which was abruptly halted by the USDA due to shifting agency priorities. Despite reinstated current funding, local food stakeholders remain uncertain about the program's future and how potential funding reductions may impact food access and local farmers.