Informational Meeting in the Northern Neck Area of Virginia, Highlights USDA's Discrimination Financial Assistance Program (DFAP) for Farmers

Matt Bowman, Region II Project Manager for the Windsor Group addresses farmers in Northern Neck Virginia

The Northern Neck area of Virginia was host to a gathering of farmers today as they attended an informational meeting organized by Mentorscope Community Outreach and Haynie Farms.  Led by Matt Bowman, the Region II Project Manager for the Windsor Group, LLC, the meeting focused on a significant program called the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program (DFAP) initiated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Through Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), $2.2 billion has been allocated to benefit farmers, ranchers, and landowners who have encountered discrimination by USDA's loan programs before January 1st, 2021.

Farmers in attendance received important information regarding the application process. It was emphasized that all applications must be submitted by January 13th, 2024, and there will be no extension to this deadline. To ensure timely submission, farmers can choose to postmark their application through US or overnight mail by January 13th, 2024, e-file it by 11:59 PM on the same date, or hand-deliver it to a regional office by 8 PM on January 13th, 2024.

Philip Haynie, II, Haynie Farms

"We are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring this critical opportunity to farmers in the Northern Neck. DFAP can be a game-changer for those who have faced discrimination, and we want to ensure that all eligible farmers are fully informed and have the chance to participate," said Anita, president and CEO, Mentorscope Community Outreacy. “The goal is to make the DFAP accessible to all eligible farmers, ranchers, and landowners in the Northern Neck area and to promote an inclusive and equitable agricultural landscape for the future.

The meeting also shed light on the role of third-party vendors involved in this program, including the Windsor Group, Midtown Group, CBM, and Analytics Acquisitions. These vendors collaborate closely to solicit applications, provide technical assistance, address inquiries, and make case-by-case decisions for eligible farmers and ranchers. Their collective efforts ensure a fair and efficient evaluation process.

Successful distribution of the allocated funds is a priority for USDA, with plans to commence the process in early 2024. This makes it crucial for farmers to adhere to the stated deadlines and complete their applications diligently.

Northern Neck Virginia Farmers gather for an informational meeting about the DFAP.

The DFAP opens the opportunity for all farmers, ranchers, and landowners who have experienced discrimination or prejudice prior to January 1st, 2021, through USDA's loan programs or the Farm Service Agency (FSA). The eligibility criteria also include being a current debtor who has assumed debt via USDA or even inheriting debt subject to USDA farm lending discrimination.

For more information and to access the application and a list of local offices, farmers can visit the official website at www.22007apply.gov. Or contact their local USDA offices or reach out to the associated third-party vendors for assistance.

The USDA advises caution against scams and fraudulent claims that may mislead applicants during the process. It has been brought to their attention that misinformation is being spread by certain lawyers and interest groups. As a reminder, applying for this program is entirely free and does not require the involvement of a lawyer. USDA explicitly states that no attorneys' fees will be paid to applicants or their counsel, nor will representation by an attorney increase the amount of financial assistance provided.