Photo: Jeff R Clow / Moment / Getty Images
Today marks the final day for farmers in the Hudson Valley to apply for financial assistance from the Hudson Valley Farm Relief Fund. This initiative, administered by the Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming, aims to support farmers affected by the freeze on USDA-sourced grants. The freeze, which began in January following an executive order signed by President Trump, has halted funds from programs like the Regional Energy for America Program (REAP) and the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
Eligible farms in Albany, Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rensselaer, Rockland, Ulster, Sullivan, and Westchester counties can apply for the relief. To qualify, farms must demonstrate that they were expecting funds from the USDA that are now unavailable due to the freeze. The application period, which began on April 4, ends today, April 21.
According to Hudson Valley Country, every farm that meets the application requirements will receive funding. The exact amount each farm will receive depends on the total funds raised and the number of qualifying applicants. The fundraising sprint continues until early May, with funds being distributed shortly thereafter.
Farmers and supporters are encouraged to share this information and contact Glynwood’s VP of Development, Communications, and Strategic Partnerships, Zoraida Lopez-Diago, for further assistance or to contribute to the fund. More details and application forms are available on the Glynwood Center's website.