Beginning farmers have CFAP questions

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Beginning farmers have CFAP questions

The beginning farmer and rancher coordinator with the USDA’s Farm Service Agency says they are getting a lot of questions from beginning producers about the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program.

In a recent town hall meeting with producers, Sarah Campbell emphasized how the program works.

“You are eligible for 100% of the payment now. There’s no fee to apply. You don’t have to repay the funds. This is just basically a flat payment for eligible producers.”

She says the CFAP program excludes any other outstanding prior USDA debts.

Farmers can apply online or download the form and email it or put it in their local FSA office dropbox. In addition, there’s a Coronavirus Food Assistance Program call center (877-508-8364) for help with applications.

“Those folks on the phone can answer questions about the program. They can email you application forms. They can help you fill it out. And they can transfer you to your local service center.”

The ‘CFAP-2’ program reopened April 5th and runs at least through early June. A third round of coronavirus food assistance is expected late summer or early fall.

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