[Northampton County, PA] April 3, 2025 — In response to the recent $1 billion cut from the USDA budget that directly impacts farmers and children facing food insecurity, Northampton County Executive Lamont G. McClure announces targeted funding to help alleviate the strains on local food systems. This reduction, which eliminates critical programs that support local farmers and essential food banks, has sparked urgent concerns for communities nationwide.

The cut of the $660 million Local Food for Schools program and the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program, which would have provided approximately $500 million this year, poses significant challenges for local agencies struggling to meet the burgeoning demand for food assistance. These agencies, which serve areas significantly affected by increases in low to moderate-income populations, are crucial in addressing hunger, particularly in the wake of the updated 2024 US Census data highlighting a rise in child poverty rates.

In light of these changes, Northampton County is committed to doing everything in its power to support our community. We recognize the critical role of local food programs in providing for our most vulnerable residents, and we are taking action by awarding the following 2025 CDBG-CV funds to local organizations:

–         Bangor Area School District – Slater Family Network – Food Pantry: $10,000

–         Pen Argyl Area School District – Families First: $10,000

–         Wilson Area High School – LINCS Center: $10,000

–         Bethlehem Emergency Shelter: $5,000

–         Safe Harbor – Homeless Shelter: $5,000

–         Shiloh – Winter Shelter: $5,000

–         Nazareth Food Bank: $10,000

–         Slate Belt Food Hub – Mission of Love Food Ministry: $20,000

–         Western Food Hub – Northampton Borough Food Center:       $25,000

“While we cannot control national budget decisions, we can ensure that we are doing everything possible within our little corner of the world with the limited resources that we have, to assist those in need,” said McClure. “By issuing these funds, we aim to bolster the efforts of these agencies that are working tirelessly to fight hunger and support our farmers and families.”

The impact of these cuts will be profound, and Northampton County Executive Lamont G. McClure will continue to advocate for solutions that support local farmers, food banks, and vulnerable populations.