FSA finances 4-H/FFA projects with loans

“As the new 4-H and FFA year is starting again it is time to consider the Farm Service Agency to financially assist in 4-H and FFA youth loan projects,” says Libby Anderson, Farm Loan Manager. “Every year we are grooming a great group of potential farmers for the future and exposing them to their first dealings with credit, financial management and financial responsibility.”

FSA has established a great network with local 4-H and FFA leaders, schools, local fairs, auctioneers and other to make this a successful program. FSA Youth Loans have become very popular, as proven by the repeat youth loan borrowers year after year. FSA youth loan participants must remember to be responsible for the day-to-day care of their animals, and the program encourages youth to get out into their communities to market themselves and seek additional fair support.

FSA can take the financial burden off parents with youth involved in 4-H and FFA projects that are income-producing agricultural projects in connection with 4-H clubs, FFA and other agricultural groups. Projects must be planned and operated with the help of the organization advisor or leader and have parental or guardian support. The maximum loan amount is $5,000. The current interest rate is 2.625%. The project animal is the security for the loan, and FSA’s name is added to fair proceed checks as loan repayment.

Youth Loan Eligibility Requirements:

• Be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident alien;

• Be at least 10 years of age and no older than 20;

• Conduct a modest income-producing project in a supervised program of work as outlined above; and

• Demonstrate capability of planning, managing and operating the project under guidance and assistance from a project advisor.

For more information or application forms, contact Libby Anderson, Farm Loan Manager at the Grant County FSA Office, (509) 754-2463.