Older Americans who live in rural areas are isolated, with fewer transportation options and limited access to other important services. Knowing these unique challenges is one reason USDA and other federal agencies are investing in housing, health care and nutrition programs for our country’s rural seniors.
Industry estimates suggest that local food sales in America have nearly doubled in recent years, jumping from $5 billion in 2008 to $11.7 billion in 2014. We’ve invested more than $800 million in 29,100 local and regional food businesses and infrastructure projects over the past six years to help farmers, ranchers and rural businesses tap into that market.
The Administration is making a series of announcements designed to serve more meals this summer in rural and tribal areas.
To address challenges in Rural America, build on the Administration’s rural economic strategy, and improve the implementation of that strategy, the President signed an Executive Order establishing the White House Rural Council.
The Council will coordinate the Administration’s efforts in rural America by performing three core functions. It will: