Renewed IL EATS Grant Helps Midwest Food Bank Fight Food Insecurity

Midwest Food Bank Peoria has received renewed IL EATS grant funding for another year, starting July 1st. This critical funding continues to support local farmers and agency partners throughout Illinois, enabling the purchase and distribution of essential grains, dairy, and meat to qualified partners across the state.

The IL EATS grant, funded by the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) program, is designed to create equitable access to sustainable food systems in Illinois. It focuses on purchasing food from socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers, ensuring that nutritious food is distributed to communities in need. This approach alleviates food insecurity and strengthens the local agricultural economy by providing a stable market for farmers' products.

The renewal of the IL EATS grant marks a significant step forward in addressing food insecurity in Illinois by supporting both farmers and community agencies. By financing the purchase of local produce, dairy, and meat, the program provides disadvantaged farmers with a reliable market, helping stabilize their incomes and allowing them to continue contributing high-quality food to the community. One farmer expressed, "This grant has been a lifeline for our farm, allowing us to contribute meaningfully to our community." Meanwhile, agency partners across the state benefit from a steady supply of nutritious food, which is crucial for supporting underserved populations.

The distribution of grains, dairy, and meat through the IL EATS grant has been crucial. Midwest Food Bank nonprofit partners across Illinois have received these supplies, which are vital in providing nutritious meals to underserved populations.