‘It’s very disheartening’: NeighborImpact feeling the impacts of federal cuts

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- President Trump's commitment to dramatically cut spending has had significant effects here at home, including on local food banks that rely heavily on federal funding.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced it would cut more than $1 billion in funding for local food banks and schools.

For Central Oregon's NeighborImpact, this means a 17% reduction in its food supply, amounting to more than half a million pounds of food, with the largest cuts in milk, cheese and meat.

Food Program Director Carly Auten told KTVZ News Friday, "We're looking at less food, less variety. And we're looking at, you know, potentially, having to put more limits on food. And it's very disheartening for those of us who work in food banking, because the demand is continuing to grow."

The nonprofit is concerned about potential cuts to SNAP benefits, which could lead to an increase in the number of people turning to food pantries and banks for support.

Currently, it serves more than 70,000 individuals each month.

NeighborImpact is always looking for donations and volunteers, and encourages anyone interested to reach out.