Hispanic and Women Farmers and Ranchers
Claims Process

1. Press release here ( 2 pages)

2. Media Notice here

3. Summary of Claims Notice here in English and here en Espanol

Sent to the KCFA on July 6, 2011:

I would like to share with you information regarding the USDA’s outreach efforts to contact Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers who believe that they were discriminated against when applying for a loan or for loan serving with the Farm Service Agency (FSA) during a specified timeframe.  If you could assist with getting the word out through the HDOA’s network of staff and/or producers that would be most appreciated.  Attached are several resources or links can be found at:  www.fsa.usda.gov/hi.
 
On a more positive note, I would be happy to share information with your network about FSA’s programs to support family farms and ranches.  As you know these programs include loans for farm ownership, operating, emergencies and youth loans.  We also support agricultural producers by providing financial support following natural disasters, and we offer a number of conservation programs to enhance the environment.  Here is a link to FSA’s annual report for 2010 highlighting various programs benefiting producers:  http://www.fsa.usda.gov/Internet/FSA_File/fy_2010.pdf
 
Thank you in advance for your support of this outreach effort.
 
Diane
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Diane Ley
State Executive Director
Hawaii State & Pacific Basin
Farm Service Agency
U.S. Department of Agriculture
737 Bishop Street, Suite 2340
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
(808)441-2704, Ext. 136 Phone
(808)265-5242 BlackBerry
(808)441-2705 Fax    
diane.ley@hi.usda.gov