Chester County Letter of Support for TEFAP and LFPA
Rep. Danielle Friel Otten April 2, 2025 | 2:11 PM
On March 28, the Chester County Food Bank informed our office that the USDA has canceled $250,000 of vital food orders for the quarter beginning April 1, 2025. These cancellations include essential items like proteins, eggs, and dairy products. If this trend continues, the Food Bank could face up to $1 million in canceled food orders over the next year, affecting their ability to meet the growing need for food assistance here in our county.
Adding to the challenge, the USDA has also recently withdrawn $145,000 in LFPA funding previously allocated for purchasing products from local farmers. Despite these setbacks, the Food Bank remains steadfast in its commitment to serving our community. However, the impact of these changes is profound, and the food bank is calling on our community for support.
Today, 10 state legislators representing Chester County signed on to a letter to our U.S. delegation – Senator Dave McCormick, Senator John Fetterman, and Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan – urging them to advocate for the reinstatement and protection of these critical food orders and funding. The response from the community has been overwhelming since our office and other state legislators’ offices first shared the news of these cuts on Friday. Please continue to make your voices heard by contacting our federal representatives and calling for the restoration of these essential programs.
I am proud to stand with my House and Senate colleagues across Chester County to support the food bank in its mission to fight hunger and help our most vulnerable neighbors. Thank you to all who signed on!
Read the letter here.
