Kaelin Lockhart
‭(334) 613-4271‬

Alabama farmers whose operations have been disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic are actively receiving relief through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP). Applications are due Aug. 28 at farmers.gov/cfap. 

“In Alabama, we have already approved 11,368 applications and disbursed $65.7 million as of Aug. 3,” said David McCurdy, state executive director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). 

Alabama Farmers Federation National Affairs Director Mitt Walker said it is important the farming community submits applications by the deadline. 

“The Federation is working closely with FSA at the state and national level to make sure all farmers eligible for CFAP funds are aware of the available assistance,” Walker said. “All farmers, regardless of the crops they produce, should take a few minutes to see if they are eligible. County FSA offices can provide guidance, as well as Federation staff.”

CFAP will provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to farmers experiencing unprecedented losses. Following the release of CFAP’s original application in May, USDA posted amendments to the list of eligible commodities, as well as funding category expansion and payment rate adjustments. Access the full list of eligible commodities and payment rates at farmers.gov/cfap. 

USDA service centers are committed to helping farmers and ranchers while taking appropriate safety measures. Alabama service centers are open by phone appointment only. FSA is working with producers by phone and email, along with online tools, to process CFAP applications. Learn more at farmers.gov/coronavirus.