Health and Safety Cost Share for Specialty Crops (HASSC)
Receive up to $2,450 in cost-share funds to make health and safety improvements on your farm. These improvements are crucial for maintaining a safe working environment and enhancing the overall health standards on your farm.
Available Improvements Include:
- Installation of plexiglass barriers and appropriate sanitary divides
- Handwashing or field sanitation stations
- Ventilation/air filtration upgrades or similar portable systems
- First aid kits
- Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
- Windows and window screens
- Replacement of mattresses and mattress covers
- Cleaning and sanitation services
Funding Details:
- Reimbursement Ratio: 70:30, with grant funds reimbursing producers for 70% of the total expenditure.
- Maximum Reimbursement: For a maximum expenditure of $3,500, the reimbursement will be $2,450, with a net farmer investment of $1,050.
- Documentation Required: Original receipts must be provided to qualify for reimbursement.
- Resource Availability: Funds and supplies are limited and available until exhausted.
Additional Benefits:
- Free farm health and safety training, including complimentary safety glasses for all participants.
- Complimentary powder-free, nitrile gloves provided during training sessions.
Eligibility:
- Produce specialty crops as defined by the US Department of Agriculture.
- Priority is given to producers who are veterans, women, and/or individuals farming with a disability.
- New farmers who have operated a farm or ranch for 10 years or less.
- Socially disadvantaged groups as defined by USDA, including African Americans, American Indians or Alaskan natives, Hispanics, and Asians or Pacific Islanders.
- Farmers with low gross farm sales (less than $180,300) and low household income (below the national poverty level) for two consecutive years. Verify your eligibility using the Poverty Level Calculator.