(NAFB) – The Department of Agriculture Monday reopened the signup window for the CFAP 2, the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program.

CFAP 2 provides financial assistance that gives producers the ability to absorb increased marketing costs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The initial CFAP 2 signup ended in December, but USDA has reopened the signup period for CFAP 2 for at least 60 days.

Producers have multiple options to apply for CFAP 2, including through an online application portal and working directly with the FSA office at their local USDA Service Center. USDA will also finalize routine decisions and minor formula adjustments on applications and begin processing payments for certain applications filed as part of the CFAP Additional Assistance.

Additionally, USDA announced $2 million to establish partnerships with organizations to provide outreach and technical assistance to socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.

A USDA spokesperson says, “This funding will support grassroots organizations and public institutions as we support their producers.”