Our farmers need your help
In February, we learned that three of ASD’s federal grants were frozen as part of the current administration’s federal funding freeze. Totaling $1.25 million dollars in awarded and legally obligated funding that should continue through 2028, these federal grants enable ASD to provide essential resources and services that farming communities throughout Central Appalachia rely on. This includes training, technical and financial assistance, sales and processing support, and more.
With federal funding frozen, these critical services and our ASD agroforestry team are in jeopardy. These federal grants are largely reimbursement-based, meaning ASD and farmers must spend the money before the government issues payment. With a freeze in effect, these payments cannot be made and we have no information on how long it will take before our grant accounts are unlocked. Our limited state and foundation grants cannot sustain a long-term funding freeze.
ways you can help
- Contact your local representatives: Here is a draft email template and contact information for elected officials to share it with. The voice of many is stronger than the voice of a few!
- Add your name to this sign on letter: Our friends at Farm Aid have created a Lift the Funding Freeze message that you can personalize with how you are being impacted, and easily send to Congress with one click to ask for their help in releasing frozen funds.
- Share your impact story: We’d love to hear how ASD’s programming (or other federal programs) have impacted you, your farm, and/or your community – and impacts this funding freeze may have!
- Help spread the word: Share this information and these action items with your friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors to raise awareness about this issue and its impacts to our farming communities.
- Donate to our program: Your donation, no matter the size, makes a big difference for the people, plants, and future of Appalachia. Help us bridge this funding gap with a 100% tax deductible donation, matched 1:1 up to $60,000.
Hear from one of our farmers
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