USDA Grants $38.3 Million to Help South Carolina Farmers Recover from Hurricane Helene

Quick Summary: USDA announced $38.3M in grants to help South Carolina farmers recover from Hurricane Helene, covering crop, timber, and infrastructure losses under the 2025 American Relief Act.

When Hurricane Helene tore through the Southeast, South Carolina’s farming communities were hit hard. Crops destroyed, timber losses mounting, and a sense of uncertainty hung over the state’s rural backbone. Now, there’s finally some relief on the way.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a $38.3 million block grant to support farmers and forest landowners in South Carolina. The funds will be distributed through the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) to cover infrastructure damage, timber losses, and future market setbacks that many producers are still struggling to overcome.

USDA Secretary Brooke L. Rollins emphasized that this aid is not just a financial lifeline but a promise: “Farmers shouldn’t have to bear losses from a storm they couldn’t control. We’re making sure they have the support they need to keep producing America’s food supply.”

South Carolina’s Agriculture Commissioner, Hugh Weathers, echoed the sentiment, highlighting how vital agriculture and forestry are to the state’s economy. He stressed that this funding will help family-run farms and forestry businesses rebuild with confidence.

This grant is part of a broader $30 billion federal disaster relief effort under the American Relief Act of 2025, with USDA partnering across 14 states. For South Carolina producers, it’s not just about money—it’s about a chance to stand back up after one of the toughest storms in years.

Reference

Information from: USDA Official Newsroom

• USDA Official Newsroom

FAQ – USDA $38.3 Million Grant South Carolina farmers Hurricane Helene