Statement on Evolution of USDA Farmers-to-Families Food Box Program

As reported by Reuters, the U.S. Department of Agriculture plans to wind down the Farmers-to-Families Food Box Program (FFFBP) at the end of May. Oregon Food Bank CEO Susannah Morgan issued the following statement regarding the transition and overall need to refocus federal investment on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP):

“Today’s announcement recognizes what we’ve long believed: that investments in programs like SNAP and Double-Up Food Bucks are a more effective avenue to connect hard-hit communities with nutritious food. These initiatives reach urban, rural and suburban communities alike, placing food choices more directly in the hands of community members and their families. 

We are grateful for the many local farmers, food producers and distributors who worked to make our Farmers-to-Families partnerships in the Pacific Northwest a success — despite well-documented national challenges with implementation of the program. And we look forward to continuing our work with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to ensure food remains available to all who need it.”