STATEHOUSE (June 25, 2020) — Local farmers and agricultural producers directly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for financial assistance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, according to State Rep. Matt Lehman (R-Berne).
Lehman said the initiative is providing $16 billion in direct relief payments for those in the agriculture industry experiencing income losses as a result of decreased demand for their products.
"Farmers in our community are feeling the toll of the impacts of the virus, not only in their pocketbooks, but also physically and mentally," Lehman said. "These are our friends and neighbors, and we need them to put food on our tables. While not a cure-all, these federal funds could help some farmers weather the storm as our economy starts to pick up again."
To be eligible for assistance, producers of agricultural commodities must have experienced at least a 5% price decline or who had losses due to market supply chain disruptions due to COVID-19 and face additional significant market costs. Eligible products include specialty and non-specialty crops, wool, livestock and dairy
Applications for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program are open through Aug. 28 and available through the Farm Service Agency at local USDA Service Centers. For more information including eligibility requirements and finding local service centers, visit farmers.gov/cfap.
Additionally, the USDA is supporting agricultural producers by purchasing $3 billion in fresh produce, dairy and meat to be distributed to food banks, community and faith-based organizations, and other nonprofits serving those in need.
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State Rep. Matt Lehman (R-Berne) represents House District 79,
which includes all of Adams County and portions of Allen and Wells counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
