The Texas Department of Agriculture will use Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) funding to create a program that will foster in-state, long-term relationships and build sustainable market opportunities for State producers. The program will emphasize supporting small and socially disadvantaged producers to increase the amount of products distributed to underserved populations in the state. The goal is to tailor food distribution for unique local challenges to serve the population and feeding programs, including food banks, and other organizations that target underserved communities.
The State will administer the LFPA program funds through a competitive grant program allowing food banks, nonprofits, and other social service organizations to apply for a portion of the Texas LFPA funds. Program staff will engage with subrecipients to foster sustainable new markets for purchasing state products, especially from socially disadvantaged producers for underserved populations.