The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has decided to terminate two federal programmes, resulting in the elimination of $1 billion in funding that schools and food banks rely on to purchase local food. This move impacts $660 million allocated for the Local Food for Schools programme across 40 states and $420 million designated for the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement. The discontinuation of these programmes will have significant ramifications for various stakeholders in the food supply chain, including farmers, school children, and local communities. The decision to cut funding comes amidst budget constraints and has sparked concerns about the future of supporting local food systems in the United States. The USDA’s move has raised questions about the government’s commitment to promoting sustainability, supporting local agriculture, and ensuring access to fresh, nutritious food for school children. Stakeholders are urging policymakers to reconsider these cuts and find alternative solutions to continue supporting local food procurement efforts. The impact of these funding cuts will be felt not only by schools and food banks but also by farmers who rely on these programmes to sell their produce and contribute to the local economy. As discussions continue about the implications of this decision, stakeholders are advocating for a more sustainable approach to supporting local food systems and ensuring food security for all.