Gov. Newsom Shines Light on Food Insecurity and Highlights Efforts by Ag Council Members
State Capitol
Governor Gavin Newsom introduced initiatives to fight hunger in California this week and placed a spotlight on Ag Council members helping to address food insecurity in California.
With a 73 percent spike in demand at food banks for people in need and some farmers experiencing a rapid market decrease due to cancelled contracts, Governor Newsom and California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Secretary Karen Ross announced an expansion of California’s Farm to Family program to facilitate donations from farms to hungry families. The program comprises a partnership between CDFA and the California Association of Food Banks.
Governor Newsom announced a new public-private partnership to boost the Farm to Family program by leveraging both public funds and philanthropic dollars, including contributions from Ag Council members Farm Credit and CoBank.
During his press conference, the governor spoke of donations from Sunkist, Pacific Coast Producers, Dairy Farmers of America and others helping to feed people in need and meet a growing demand during challenging times.
Governor Newsom said he is “excited and enlivened” by the efforts.
We recognize and thank these and other Ag Council members who continue to make significant donations to food banks, hospitals, schools and nonprofits across California.
Ag Council appreciates all of our members going above and beyond to take action and help feed hungry families during this challenging time.
This week, the governor also expanded benefits through CalFresh and the Pandemic Emergency Benefits Transfer Program (P-EBT) to address food insecurity.
Click HERE to read the governor’s full announcement.
Capitol Farm Connection Podcast
Did you catch Ag Council’s recent Capitol Farm Connection podcast where our team discusses advocacy amid COVID-19?
To hear the latest from the State Capitol, click HERE to listen