The Center for Rural Affairs is partnering with Farm Aid and Iowa Farmers Union to provide grants up to $500 to farmers who are suffering financially from flooding this spring. For individuals to be eligible, they must be located in an area damaged by the recent flooding — in any part of Iowa — and must be farmers.

“We are working together with partners to help farmers navigate the recovery process,” says Cora Fox, policy associate at the Center for Rural Affairs. “We understand the challenges farmers face, and we want them to know they aren’t alone.”

She adds, “We originally announced the availability of these grants in April. Since then, we’ve set a deadline for applications — July 15. We also were more focused on western Iowa in April and have since then expanded our focus to include all of Iowa as there is a need all over the state.”

Restriction on use of grant money

The grant can be used for household expenses, including medical bills, but may not be used for professional expenses related to farming operations.

The deadline to apply is July 15, Fox says. To learn more and to fill out the online application, visit cfra.org. Or call the center at 402-687-2100 with any questions.

Nebraska farmers impacted by recent flooding and looking for assistance can reach out to Interchurch Ministries of Nebraska, which is partnering with Farm Aid and the Center for Rural Affairs. They can be reached on the Nebraska Rural Response Hotline at 800-464-0258.

Other sources of flood assistance

The state of Iowa’s 2-1-1 flood hotline is still in operation. Iowans who need assistance with questions and concerns can call the hotline for answers to questions and concerns about flooding, and review the list of critical resources to aid in flood recovery or assist a neighbor or any Iowan who has been affected.

Iowa Farm Bureau recently announced a $35,000 donation for flood relief efforts to help manage the immediate concerns of Missouri River flood victims. Read Iowa Farm Bureau's article, Iowa Farm Bureau supports immediate relief efforts and resources for flood victims. To donate to flood relief efforts, visit "Make a Donation" at Iowa’s flood relief website. ISU Extension also lists a number of flood-related resources on its website. 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced on June 5 that the Missouri River will remain high because of water being released from upstream dams. The Corps says flooding downstream may worsen because many levees were damaged by flooding in March.