Frye, Lyness: Help Available To Farmers Who Suffered Losses Due To Pandemic

Friday, June 12, 2020 at 3:45 PM

By State Reps. Randy Frye (R-Greensburg) and Randy Lyness (R-West Harrison), column

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.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - 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. Randy Frye (R-Greensburg) and Randy Lyness (R-West Harrison).

Frye 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.

"Farming is one of the state's oldest professions and we want our rich agricultural heritage to continue," Frye said. "This assistance can help these critical contributors get through this unprecedented time."

To be eligible for assistance, producers of agricultural commodities must have experienced at least a 5% price decline or had losses due to market supply chain disruptions due to COVID-19 and face additional significant market costs. According to Lyness, eligible products include specialty and non-specialty crops, wool, livestock and dairy.

"Many small businesses have been impacted by this public health emergency, including our hardworking farmers," Lyness said. "They've provided food for our families for generations, and now they may need some help during this trying time."

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.