On January 15, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that they have updated the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) to provide additional assistance to farmers and ranchers. Through USDA, the Farm Service Agency (FSA) has expanded program eligibility for agricultural producers and commodities, in addition to updating the pay-scale for producers who previously applied for the program. Newly eligible producer categories include: Livestock by Contract Growers, Pullets and Turfgrass Sod. For more eligibility information click here. Applications are open now, through February 26, 2021.

As a result of the pandemic, the agriculture industry has been hit incredibly hard. From economic struggles due to decreased demand on the production side, to difficulties processing goods because of COVID-19 outbreaks in factories, our nation’s food system has suffered immensely. CFAP was established through funds appropriated in the CARES Act and received additional funding through Families First Coronavirus Relief Act and existing USDA programs. CFAP provides direct payments to farmers and ranchers and allows USDA to facilitate purchasing and distribution. For more information on the CFAP1 and CFAP 2 programs, click here.

Throughout the pandemic, USDA has provided resources to help members of our rural communities and the agriculture industry understand funding opportunities and other programs of interest. To help county officials navigate these programs, USDA also created the AskUSDA Contact Center Program. This central hub for online inquiries provides around the clock support for individuals who have questions on any USDA programs such as CFAP.

NACo will continue to monitor new funding opportunities and keep members aware of any developments.