I write on behalf of my constituents in the Rio Grande Valley to urge you to reconsider the termination of a $7.4 million grant awarded to Holistic Organic Practical Education for Small Farm Sustainability (H.O.P.E.).
This organization trains community members to farm, helps families grow their own food, and teacher small farmers how to market and expand their operations — all activities that should be supported, not terminated.
I recognize the USDA's commitment to strengthening the American agricultural economy and appreciate the programs available to larger farming operations. However, it is equally important to support individuals who want to starft small farms or grow food for their families. As Texas continues to grow, we are losing farmland. We must do all we can to encourage and support those who wish to farm.
While USDA service centers across Texas provide valuable assistance in financing, conservation, and infastructure, they do not offer the hands-on training that many beginners need. H.O.P.E. fills this gap by providing instruction in composting, soil preperation, irrigation, installation, and harvesting — firectly to families in our communities.
When individuals gain these skills, they can feed their own families and, in time, help feed others. This is a clear benefit to our communities and our state. I commend the staff and leadership of H.O.P.E. for the difference they are making, and I respecfully urge you to restore their grant funding so they may continue their important work.
Thank you for your consideration. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need additional information.
Sincerely,
Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
State Senator, District 20
Editor's Note: The above letter was penned by state Sen. Juan Hinojosa of McAllen and sent to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to protest a decision her department made to rescind funding for HOPE for Small Farm Sustainability.
