The COVID-19 crisis has upended the livelihoods of many farmers, ranchers and others in the Colorado food system. The closures of restaurants, schools and other outlets that buy directly from small- and mid-size producers has meant losing access to customers, storage, distribution, and ultimately, revenue. Producers need money now to address new and unexpected needs, from farm labor and technology services to packaging and PPE.
A new, rapid-response fund will provide up to $25,000 to agricultural and food-based businesses and organizations to adjust to COVID-specific needs. Food- and ag-focused organizations in Colorado partnered to create a new Colorado Farm & Food Systems Response Team and associated fund, to support farmers and ranchers in the midst of this crisis.
Let's help our Colorado producers keep their businesses alive and ensure their products continue to feed our state and region. The first round of funding for the Colorado Farm & Food System Respond & Rebuild Fund is now open and closes May 4. Apply, learn more, or donate today at https://cofoodsystems.org/covid-19-response-fund/
