FREDERIKSTED — As a result of the economic crisis associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture (VIDA) in conjunction with St. Croix Senator Allison DeGazon, has secured $100,000.00 to support local farmers.
This economic impact payment is designed to support farmers as they continue to supply our local economy with fresh local produce at locations such as markets, school lunch programs, hospitals, senior citizen facilities, etc.
Interested farmers will need to submit a “2020 COVID-19 Farmer Stimulus Application” to the cashier in our VIDA offices or via email at: grants@doa.vi.gov by November 25, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. AST.
Late applications, applications with missing information, or applications incorrectly submitted will not be considered or accepted. Please be sure to include copies of your 2018/2019 DCLA & VIDA Farm Licenses, and Harvest Reports as requested.
How does it work/who qualifies for the farmers stimulus check?
Any farmer who has been licensed with the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs for the last 2 years and whose farms are currently in production will qualify for this payment.
What is the amount each farmer will receive?
Each qualified farmer will be mailed a one-time stimulus payment from the Department of Agriculture. The final payment amount will be divided equally among the qualified farmers with payments of up to $500 each.
When will payment be received?
Payments are anticipated by the end of January 2021.
Is the money yours, free and clear?
Yes, this is not a loan and you do not have to repay the Department of Agriculture.
For more information please visit our website at doa.vi.gov/2020-farmer-stimulus
All other questions about this application can be submitted to info.doa@doa.vi.gov or can be answered via phone at (340) 778-0997, on St. Croix; (340) 774-5182, on St. Thomas; or (340) 776-6274, on St. John.