COVID-19 Resources for Farmers and Ranchers
June 10, 2020
Everything is changing daily right now, especially for members of our agricultural community. With commodity markets shifting in unpredictable ways, we at MALT want to do all we can to support you, our local farmers and ranchers.
Here is a brief reference guide of resources we think could be helpful and partner agencies that are currently offering support:
*We will continue to update this page as new information becomes available.
The Community Alliance with Family Famers (CAFF) have complied an extensive COVID-19 resource page which includes information about financial assistance programs and CAFF’s Family Farmer Relief Fund. They have also created an information gathering spreadsheet to help match food producers with purveyors in an effort to stabilize the shift in the food supply chain.
California Farmlink is assisting with emergency loans up to $20,000 at 0% interest, with no payments required for two years. Farmlink is also offering business support to farmers and ranchers who are experiencing loss of income and/or business interruptions during this crisis.
The Marin and Sonoma County Farm Bureaus have put together an excellent COVID-19 resources page, including detailed information about unemployment insurance, employee benefits, disability insurance, paid family leave, USDA resources, SBA resources and more. FARMLINK
Kitchen Table Advisors has developed a COVID-19 resources page, including listings of farmers’ markets and CSAs, as well as guidance for how to stay healthy and support local restaurants during this time.
University of California Cooperative Extension continues to serve farmers and ranchers, and has compiled a number of helpful resources on their website, including guidance about food safety, protecting employees, financial assistance and more.
USDA Coronavirus Food Assistance Program is accepting applications through August, 28, 2020.