Virginia agricultural producers can apply now for USDA’s Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, which provides direct payments to offset impacts from the coronavirus pandemic.

The application and a payment calculator are available online, and USDA’s Farm Service Agency staff members are available via phone, fax and online tools to help producers complete applications. The agency set up a call center in order to simplify how they serve new customers across the nation.

“We know Virginia producers are facing a tough time now, and we are making every effort to provide much needed support as quickly as possible,” said Nivin A. Elgohary, State Executive Director for FSA in Virginia. Applications will be accepted through Aug. 28. Through CFAP, USDA is making available $16 billion for financial assistance to producers of agricultural commodities who have suffered a 5 percent or greater price decline due to COVID-19 and face additional significant marketing costs as a result of lower deman...