WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Early mornings at Second Harvest Food Bank in Winston-Salem are typically bustling with activity. Forklifts move swiftly, transporting pallets of food destined for communities across North Carolina. On a recent day, volunteers worked diligently to sort and pack over 40 tons of food for distribution.
However, recent federal funding cuts have cast a shadow over these operations. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s decision to reduce the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) program by over $470 million has left many food banks scrambling. LFPA has enabled organizations like Second Harvest to purchase food from local farmers, ensuring fresh and nutritious options for those in need.
“The need is constant, and that’s unfortunate, but we’re glad we can be here,” said a representative from Second Harvest, highlighting the ongoing demand despite financial challenges…