The Alabama Farmers Federation on Wednesday announced the launch of Alabama FarmCorps, a program connecting farmers who need labor with military personnel looking for work amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
National guardsmen, reservists and veterans qualify for FarmCorps, per a release. The federation is reportedly coordinating the program with the National Guard.
“Farmers and military personnel are both critical to national security, whether safeguarding our food supply or protecting our borders,” Alabama Farmers Federation president Jimmy Parnell said in a statement.
“During this pandemic, workers across all industries have been laid off, and servicemen with civilian careers are no exception. Meanwhile, farmers are heading into the summer growing season and are looking for skilled, hard-working help. We’re grateful for this opportunity to thank the men and women who serve our country,” he continued.
Farmers can advertise available positions and military personnel can apply for FarmCorps online here.
FarmCorps has already garnered vocal support from Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04). Aderholt is a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, also serving proudly as a member of the Agriculture and Rural Development Subcommittee and the Defense Subcommittee.
“The stability of our food supply is a vital necessity for the security of our state, especially in uncertain times like today,” Aderholt stated. “I am proud to support FarmCorps, connecting hard-working National Guardsmen, reservists and military veterans with jobs to keep Alabama’s agricultural industry strong and provide food for American families. I thank Alfa for driving this initiative and the military personnel who will continue to serve the American people through FarmCorps.”
Alabama Secretary of Labor Fitzgerald Washington on Tuesday advised that over 300,000 Alabamians have filed initial unemployment claims since the onset of the pandemic. This number continues to grow, although Washington believes the weekly number of initial claims has peaked.
Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn
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