Source: NCDA&CS, 6/4/20

Farmers and ranchers in North Carolina can now apply for financial assistance through USDA’s Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. One source of funding is $9.5 billion from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Stability act to compensate for specialty crop and dairy losses because of price declines from midJanuary to mid-April. A second source of funding uses the Commodity Credit Corp. Charter Act to compensate producers for $6.5 billion in losses because of ongoing market disruptions. Find applications and additional information at farmers.gov/cfap or call 877-508-8364. Farmers will apply through local Farm Service Agency offices. Most FSA offices are operating by appointment only. Documentation may be requested. Applications will be accepted through Aug. 28. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the availability of $3 million for competitive grants to support the development of urban agriculture and innovative production projects through two categories: Planning Projects and Implementation Projects. Deadline to apply is midnight, July 6. 

Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP) has established a new grant program—Appalachian Grown Farmer Immediate Needs Grants—for farmers experiencing lost income and added expenses due to COVID-19. Farmers may apply for up to $500 to make strategic investments in meeting new market requirements, such as new technology, packaging materials, communications or other modest investments that will allow the farm to quickly respond to the changing market environment. Priority will be given to farmers who 1) face a significant loss or disruption of market outlets due to COVID-19; 2) depend on the farm business for more than 50 percent of their household income; and 3) plan to use funds to help shift their farm business to new models or adjust to new market requirements. 

Direct grants, cost-share and low-interest loans are available to food and farming businesses in seven Southwestern North Carolina counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians from EmPOWERing Mountain Food Systems. Funds may be used for equipment, infrastructure and supplies to increase production and income. The program also offers free business counseling services, an apprenticeship program and support for value-added food production. Contact Laura Lauffer at lwlauffe@ncsu.edu for more information.