Michigan and Ohio are getting almost $200,000 each of the  $8.4 million total in USDA grants that will be used provide training, outreach and technical assistance for socially disadvantaged, tribal and veteran farmers and ranchers. Nationally, organizations in 24 states will benefit.

Minority and veteran farmers to benefit from $8.4 million in grants

"USDA was created to be 'The People's Department,' and in the past eight years we have made tremendous progress in correcting past mistakes and creating a more inclusive culture within our organization,” says Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Part of that legacy includes supporting farmers and ranchers with diverse backgrounds and experience levels. The grants will be leveraged by local partners and help bring traditionally underserved people into farming, as well as veterans who want to return home to rural areas."

Included in the grants were:

•Michigan Integrated Food & Farming Systems, Michigan, $199,998

•Asian Service Action Inc., Ohio, $199,722

These grants are provided through USDA's Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program, also known as the 2501 Program and administered by USDA's Office of Advocacy and Outreach (OAO). Since 2010, more than $83.8 million has been invested through the 2501 Program to leverage the work of local partners. The 2014 Farm Bill reauthorized the program and expanded the program mandate to include military Veterans.

OAO works across USDA agencies to improve the viability and profitability of small and beginning farmers and ranchers; improve access to USDA programs for historically underserved communities; increase agricultural opportunities for farm workers; and close the professional achievement gap by providing opportunities for diverse, talented young people to support the agricultural industry in the 21st century.

Source: USDA