People Helping People: How Farmers and Nonprofits Are Bridging Federal Funding Gaps
When federal reimbursement programs stall, the ripple effects are felt deeply — especially across the Heartland’s regenerative farming system. A recent story from KSHB 41 highlights how organizations like the KC Farm School faced six weeks of reduced staff and uncertainty when USDA payments were delayed, with more than $500,000 in grants in limbo. We’re honored to be featured in this story and grateful for the opportunity to highlight the urgent need for rapid, farmer-first support.
(kshb.com)
At Healing Soils Foundation (HSF), we believe the most urgent needs call for nimble, creative solutions. When KC Farm School didn’t know if their grants would come through, HSF stepped in with a $60,000 loan for a delivery van — and rolled out our recoupable-capital model through the Regenerative Farmer Assurance Fund (RFAF) to help Midwest farmers access more than $550,000 in critical funding when public dollars stalled. These flexible, upfront investments keep conservation projects moving when the systems meant to support them slow down.
This story isn’t just about surviving a government shutdown — it’s about re-shaping how we fund resilience. Farmers implementing cover crops, rotational grazing, and perennial systems do so in years where risk is high and payback is slow. By offering bridge capital when reimbursements freeze, HSF ensures farmers aren’t left behind while markets — and climate pressures — move forward.
Looking ahead, the need is clear:
Government systems can pause.
Farmers can’t afford to.
Philanthropy can keep regenerative work on track.
We’re grateful to the KC Farm School, and to all of the farmers and organizations supporting one another through uncertainty. Their leadership is a reminder that building a resilient food system is, at its core, people helping people.
Read the full KSHB article here:
“People Helping People: Nonprofits support one another during federal funding freezes, government shutdown.”