USDA Announces $38.1 Million Recovery Aid for Tennessee Farmers

(Washington, D.C., Dec. 12, 2025) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has recently unveiled a significant financial aid package amounting to $38.1 million aimed at assisting Tennessee farmers affected by Hurricane Helene. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, Stephen A. Vaden, signed a block grant agreement with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) to facilitate recovery efforts for eligible farmers in the region.

“America’s farmers and ranchers have faced tremendous challenges, particularly in the southeast, and Tennessee has not been spared. USDA is steadfast in ensuring that those affected receive the necessary support to rebuild,” stated Deputy Secretary Vaden. “The Trump Administration stands united with our farmers, providing the resources essential for maintaining a safe, reliable, and abundant food supply.”

Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner, Andy Holt, expressed gratitude towards Secretary Rollins and the USDA for their pivotal role in delivering much-needed relief. “This funding demonstrates a recognition of the unique challenges our agricultural producers face post-Hurricane Helene. It will help address immediate needs as well as potential future setbacks,” Holt emphasized.

Details of the Funding

The agreement with TDA allocates $38.1 million for a program designed to cover infrastructural and timber losses, along with future economic impacts and market disruptions. This support forms part of the broader $30 billion disaster aid framework authorized by the American Relief Act, 2025. USDA is collaborating with 14 states, including Tennessee, to tailor block grants that specifically cater to the disaster recovery necessities unique to each region.

USDA, in partnership with Governor Bill Lee’s office and TDA, has finalized a grant agreement that covers eligible losses not addressed by existing USDA disaster aid programs. Farmers seeking assistance can access additional information through the TDA.

Broader USDA Supplemental Disaster Assistance

Since March 2025, USDA has provided over $16 billion in supplemental disaster assistance, as mandated by the American Relief Act, 2025. This includes $9.3 billion through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program, over $1 billion via the Emergency Livestock Relief Program, along with an anticipated $1 billion in additional ELRP payments. Thus far, more than $5.7 billion has been distributed in SDRP Stage One payments.

For updates on the status of USDA disaster assistance, please visit the 2023/2024 Supplemental Disaster Assistance webpage. This page is routinely updated and accessible through the fsa.usda.gov.

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