Georgia officials introduce Hurricane Helene relief loan program for farmers

Vehicles move slowly around trees that have fallen after Hurricane Helene moved through the area, Sept. 27, 2024, in Valdosta, Ga. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart, File)

Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper announced on Friday a new emergency loan program meant to provide state farmers with recovery funds following damages caused by Hurricane Helene in September.

The SAFETY 24 Hurricane Helene Relief Loan Program will contribute towards providing lost income and continuing the operations of agriculture workers until more federal aid is approved.

Eligible uses of funds include income replacement, operating capital, repairing or replacing damaged farm structures and the repairing or replacement of damaged equipment, according a recent press release from the department.