On September 7, 2021, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that $700 million in grant funding will be available through the new Farm and Food Workers Relief (FFWR) grant program to help farm workers and meatpacking workers with pandemic-related health and safety costs. The UFW Foundation plans to apply for the grant.

Amount for Workers

• Up to $600/worker in the categories identified (meat-packing and farm work)—they emphasized that support is not intended for management at workplaces in these sectors.

Timeline

• Applications are not yet available. The US Department of Agriculture is still determining the application process for organizations that will administer the program to apply. Once the organizations are selected, the process for workers will begin in a number of months.
• Early October-mid-October: UFW Foundation to apply for funding.
• Delivery to beneficiaries is up to 24 months, at this point, to provide reasonable time to distribute the funds.

Applications

Once the USDA opens the application period for workers to apply, we will be able to communicate with you regarding the process and the requirements. Currently, THERE ARE NO APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE. Stay informed by signing up for our text messaging program by texting ‘SI SE PUEDE’ to 877-877 or follow us on our digital platforms.

Requirements

It is our understanding that all farm workers, regardless of immigration status can apply. We will continue to advocate that that is the case. More details on requirements and proof of occupation will be forthcoming.