May 2, 2020

Dear Friend,

Food security is national security. No one understands that better than our farmers, military personnel, and veterans. It is with this in mind that the Farm and Ranch Mission (FARM) Corps was launched. The program partners furloughed members of the Mississippi National Guard, Reserves, and Veterans with agricultural producers. Many of these men and women are struggling with job losses due to COVID-19. At the same time, farmers and ranchers who rely on seasonal workers are suffering from labor shortages caused by travel restrictions - also a direct result of COVID-19. Recently, I discussed FARM Corps on WTVA News. Please click to watch.

FARM Corps is a partnership with Mississippi Farm Bureau, Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, Mississippi National Guard, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Mississippi Veterans Affairs and other agricultural and veterans organizations. Maj. Gen. Janson D. Boyles, Adjutant General of Mississippi, said FARM Corps will be a great opportunity for both the Guard and for farmers. Please click to watch.

Here's how it works: Agricultural producers will list available jobs on the Mississippi FARM Corps website and the official Mississippi FARM Corps Facebook page. Those who are seeking a job can begin the application process on the website. This program originated in Arkansas through a collaboration between U.S. Representative Rick Crawford and the Arkansas Farm Bureau. For more information, please give our team a call at (662) 687-2570.

paycheck protection program (ppp)

Mississippi's small business owners have navigated difficult waters since the coronavirus forced many of them to furlough their employees and in the worst-case scenario, to close their doors. As someone who has worked in retail and operated a small business, I can understand their uncertainty and anxiety. After a successful launch, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) quickly came to the aid of our business owners, but not enough to take care of them all. The PPP has been replenished, paving the way for more businesses to stay afloat. I am pleased to introduce you to two business owners who qualified for the program - Tommy and Carin Franks, owner of Magnolia Freight Services, and Carmen and Luke White, owners of the Lake Tiak-O'Khata resort in Louisville.

Magnolia Freight Services

Tommy and Carin Franks opened Magnolia Freight Services in 1999. They employ seven drivers and two mechanics. When the coronavirus forced the closure of furniture manufacturing companies, they did not have enough products to transport. The couple was worried that their employees would have to be furloughed.

After weeks without any work, the Franks found out about the Paycheck Protection Program and contacted their banker. "We were so relieved," Tommy said. "There would be no way to keep that up much longer. Our employees have families to provide for. We are so thankful that we could keep them on the payroll."

Lake Tiak-O'Khata

The Lake Tiak-O'Khata resort in Winston County has been a popular vacation destination for families since the 1950s. Over the years, the family-owned operation has grown to employ 48 Mississippians to take care of their 75 hotel rooms and eight cabins.

Carmen Bunton White, Luke and
Anne Jordan White

"We are coming up on our busy season when large groups come to stay," Luke said. "The coronavirus has already impacted our business which is why we turned to the Paycheck Protection Program for help. While we ride this out, we have adapted by offering curbside service and delivery."

For more information about this program, please click on the following links.

Coronavirus.gov Small Business Resources page

UPDATED: Administration FAQ on the Paycheck Protection Program

SBA.gov/Coronavirus Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources Page

SBA Paycheck Protection Report with State-by-State Breakdown

Examples of the PPP Saving Jobs & Helping Small Businesses

STAY IN TOUCH

Let me know if there is anything my office can do to assist you. You can keep up with the latest news by signing up for my newsletter and following me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for reading,

Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01)
Member of Congress