A launch pad for farms: Leveraging USDA programs across our regions
Some of The Common Market’s most significant growth in 2023 stemmed from the USDA’s Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and Local Foods for Schools (LFS), two programs that jump-started deeper engagement with our farmer partners new and old. Although the characteristics of the programs varied across our states, they allowed The Common Market to diversify how locally grown food could reach people who need it. Both programs were inspired by the need to support our country’s hardworking farms and create resilient supply chains. But, what happens once the various program periods end? Read on to learn about our forward commitment program, and how it could fill the gap, ensuring farmers do not lose substantial market demand they just worked so hard to meet.