Farmers’ Market and Food Bank Local Revitalization Act of 2023

HR 2378 increases funding for the Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program to expand access for low-income seniors and families with young children. It authorizes $60 million in 2024 (rising to $100 million annually by 2026) to cover funding backlogs, raises the senior benefit to $35 per person (removing a maximum limit), and expands eligibility to 200% of the federal poverty level. The bill also provides $50 million annually for 2024-2029 to fund new or improved farmers’ markets in food deserts, requiring at least 50% of market space for locally grown products. Additionally, it launches a $7.5 million pilot program connecting food banks with local farmers to grow produce in 15 communities, prioritizing areas with high food insecurity.