STATEHOUSE (June 11, 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 Reps. Matt Hostettler (R-Fort Branch) and Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville).
Hostettler 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.
"Our farmers are critical to the success of the Hoosier economy," Hostettler said. "This funding is much-needed assistance to help alleviate financial burdens some producers may be experiencing until the food supply chain recovers."
According to McNamara, 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.
"Farming has played an important role in developing Indiana as a state," McNamara said. "To help farmers continue their businesses, this program may offset some of the profit loss they might have suffered because of the pandemic."
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 who serve those in need.
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State Rep. Matt Hostettler (R-Fort Branch) represents House District 64,
which includes Gibson County and portions of Knox, Pike, Vanderburgh and Posey counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville) represents House District 76,
which includes portions of Posey and Vanderburgh counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
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