The U.S. Department of Agriculture is providing more than $71 million to help underserved communities through two USDA programs.
Funding for underserved communities will be available through the USDA’s 2501 Program and the American Rescue Plan Technical Assistance Investment Program, a news release said. USDA pledged to take proactive action to advance equity for all, particularly for farmers and producers in underrepresented communities. These investments are a part of that commitment.
“This is a major step in the right direction as the Biden-Harris administration continues to ensure underserved groups can more fully access and participate in federal programs and services,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in the release. “We are committed to building a different USDA. One that is steadfast in our actions, mindset and culture around equality and justice for all.”
The USDA will invest $36.1 million in grants to 52 organizations through the 2501 Program, which provides technical assistance and training to “underserved and veteran farmers, ranchers and foresters,” the release said. The grants are awarded to nonprofit and community-based organizations and higher education institutions to implement the program. The 2501 Program is administered by USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement.
According to the release, the American Rescue Plan Technical Assistance Investment program fosters technical assistance projects and networks for “underserved farmers, ranchers, forest landowners and operators.” USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture administers the program which will have an investment of “$35.1 million in cooperative agreements to 13 universities and nonprofit organizations across the nation.”
