Federal cuts cost area food banks 40,000 cases of expected groceries

LAWRENCE, Kan. (KCTV) - Federal cuts have cost one local organization around 40,000 cases of food meant for community who needed it most.

Just Food of Douglas County announced on Thursday, April 3, that the organization now expects to see 30% less food from the Emergency Food Assistance Program. Harvesters had been notified that 40,000 cases of meat, dairy, eggs and dried fruit that had been ordered were canceled through August.

Organization leaders noted that the TEFAP is a federal nutrition program mean to help low-income homes supplement food sources through food banks and pantries. On average, 6,000 - 8,000 lbs. of food is distributed by Just Food each month. More than 5,500 Douglas County residents rely on that food.

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“TEFAP is one of the only food sources we receive at no cost, and losing 30% of these shipments will have a significant impact,” said Jessica Cooney, Director of Impact at Just Food. “With grocery prices remaining high and ongoing uncertainty, many in our community are already facing difficult choices. Reductions like this add to the growing strain on families relying on food assistance and the organizations working to them.”

Just Food said that as federal cuts to food assistance programs continue amid a challenging economic climate, access to nutritious food is expected to become increasingly difficult for many families. Community remains crucial.