Food producers who have been hurt financially by the COVID-19 pandemic have an opportunity to get aid from the federal government starting Tuesday. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program through August 28.
The program provides vital financial assistance to producers of agricultural commodities who have suffered a five-percent-or-greater price decline or who had losses due to market supply chain disruptions due to COVID-19 and face additional significant market costs. Eligible commodities include a variety of crops, livestock, wool, nuts, and dairy.
According to the USDA, eligible farmers and ranchers will receive one payment.
The program gets its funding via the Federal CARES Act, which provides $19 billion in immediate relief to farmers. This aid includes direct support to farmers and the Farmers to Families Food Box Program, which purchases food from farmers to supply food banks. Those food banks help feed needy Americans and keep food from going to waste.
Producers should apply through their local Farm Service Agency Service Center. While USDA Service Centers are open for business by phone appointment only, the Farm Service Agency is working with their agricultural producers by phone and using email and online tools to process applications. More information can be found on their online page.