FSA offers 2015 youth loans for 4-H and FFA projects

“As the new 4-H and FFA year is starting again, it is time to consider Farm Service Agency to financially assist in 4-H and FFA youth loan projects,” says Libby Anderson, Farm Loan Manager. FSA has established a great network with local 4-H and FFA leaders, 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 encourages youth to get out into the community to market themselves to seek additional fair support.

FSA makes loans to youths to establish and operate 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 proceeds as loan repayment.

Youth Loan Eligibility Requirements:

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

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

• 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 Farm Loan Manager Libby Anderson at the Grant County FSA Office, (509) 754-2463.