USDA releases new online tool to assist rural communities affected by coronavirus

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has released a new tool to support rural entities, including communities, businesses, organizations and individuals impacted by the corona virus crisis. The COVID-19 Federal Rural Resource, according to an April 13 USDA press release, is a "one-stop shop of federal programs that can be used by rural communities" and a "first-of-its-kind resource for rural leaders looking for federal funding and partnership opportunities to help address this pandemic."

The guide is divided into a matrix with sections such as Technical Assistance/Training/Management, Financial Assistance and General State/Local Resources, with links to numerous sites under each category. Many of the funding opportunities are ones provided by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and. Economic Security Act (CARES) Act, which was passed by the U.S. Congress in late March.

The USDA's press release about the newly minted guide states, “This resource guide will help our rural leaders, whether they are in agriculture, education, health care or any other leadership capacity, understand what federal assistance is available for their communities during this unprecedented time.”

To view the new guide, click here.