The local food purchasing assistance program through the USDA was cut in March. Farmers and food banks are now hoping it will be restored.

The USDA announced in March it would end the Local Food Purchase Agreement Program, which gives food banks money to purchase food directly from local farmers.

PHILADELPHIA — Gov. Josh Shapiro announced his administration has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) over its cancellation of millions of dollars in federal funding to farmers who supply food banks throughout the state.