WASHINGTON – Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support Native American and veteran farmers and ranchers in Arizona by correctly utilizing resources for a beneficial federal program. The Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program (2501 Program) helps support education and engagement programs for Native American and veteran farmers and ranchers in Arizona.
“Supporting Native American and veteran farmers and ranchers will help boost Arizona’s food supply, create jobs, and better strengthen our economy,” said Sinema.
The 2501 Program provides outreach and technical assistance for underserved farmers and ranchers. The program’s goal is to help farmers and ranchers who have experienced barriers to service due to racial or ethnic prejudice. Grants are awarded to education institutions and nonprofits to extend USDA’s engagement efforts in underserved communities in Arizona.
However, USDA has redirected funding for the 2501 Program to a new initiative created by the administration. Sinema’s letter urges the importance of funding for underserved farming and ranching communities and inquires the reasoning for redirecting these funds.
Click HERE to read Sinema’s letter.
