Funding Freeze Impacting Food Network

Special Message: Funding Freeze Impacting Our Local Food Network

Recent freezes in federal funding have placed a heavy strain on the Davidson County Local Food Network and the farmers and food access programs it supports. As of now, our funding remains frozen.

While we received our December reimbursement in February, we are still waiting for our January reimbursement—with only limited reimbursements allowed through January 19th. This delay puts unnecessary pressure on local farmers, food distributors, and community organizations that rely on these funds to keep our local food system thriving.

Why This Matters

A strong local food system ensures that:
✅ Farmers get paid fairly and on time.
✅ Local families have access to fresh, nutritious food.
✅ Regional food economies remain resilient and sustainable.

With funding stalled, these vital systems are at risk. We need action NOW to unfreeze USDA funding and support our local food community.

Take Action: Call Your Representatives!

Help us get this funding back on track by contacting US Secretary of Agriculture Rollins and your congressional representatives. Your voice can make a difference in ensuring that the USDA honors its contracts with farmers and nonprofits.

📞 Secretary of Agriculture Rollins

• (833) ONE-USDA

• (202) 720-7100

• Email: AgSec@usda.gov

📍 Find Your Representatives:
🔗 https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials

What to Say: Sample Call Script

"Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I live in [Your City/State]. I’m calling to express my concern about the continued freeze on USDA funding, which is negatively impacting farmers, food access programs, and local food networks like ours in Davidson County. These funds are essential for keeping our food system running and ensuring that small farms and food distribution programs can continue their work. I urge [Representative’s Name] to take immediate action to unfreeze these critical funds and honor USDA contracts with farmers and nonprofits. Thank you.”

📢 If leaving a voicemail, be sure to include your full street address so your call is officially counted. If DC office mailboxes are full, call your representative’s local office in your state.

Our Local Food System Needs You!

Federal funding delays shouldn’t threaten the hard work of local farmers and food advocates. By raising our voices, we can help ensure a sustainable, fair, and thriving local food economy for everyone.

Thank you for taking action!
#PiedmontFresh #SupportLocalFarmers #UnfreezeFunding #LocalFoodMatters #TakeAction