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The efforts of a financial institution created to fund underserved farmers is being put on pause. According to a news release, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced in October 2024 the launch of the Southern Farmers Financial Association (SFFA), a bank that would make it easier for underserved farmers to access funding. Black farmers, in particular, face greater challenges in securing loans and often encounter discriminatory practices, Civil Eats mentions. To create better outcomes, Southern Farmers Financial Association r eceived $20 million in funding through former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris’ Inflation Reduction Act, which would support lending and outreach, hiring full-time staff, and attracting private sector capital. “Every farmer needs affordable financing. Farmers must have reliable and consistent access to capital to be successful,” USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development Dr. Basil Gooden said in a news release. “For too...