AlpacaGram 8.34 | USDA Financial Assistance Programs Are Still Available

USDA Financial Assistance Programs Are Still Available

Has your alpaca business been directly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic?

The Government and Industry Relations Committee wants you to know that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is establishing new programs and efforts to bring financial assistance to farmers, ranchers and producers who felt the impact of COVID-19 market disruptions. The new initiative — USDA Pandemic Assistance for Producers — will reach a broader set of producers than previous COVID-19 aid programs.

Applications for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP 2) will be available for a limited time only. Additional information can be found at https://www.farmers.gov.

It is also important to establish a personal relationship with your local Farm Service Agency (FSA) representative, and to have specific information on the financial impact COVID-19 has had on your business. Use the following link to find the closest office: https://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app.

There are many other government programs that are available to assist farmers and ranchers, besides those related to COVID-19. Examples of assistance include operation loans, farm ownership loans, emergency loans, loans for minority, women and beginning farmers and ranchers, and agricultural conservation easement programs.

You are encouraged to explore the following links for more information on these programs, and to speak with a representative in your local office:

• Coronavirus and USDA Assistance for Farmers
• USDA Farm Loan Programs
• USDA Agricultural Conservation Easement Program