WACO, TEXAS (RFD-TV) — For many veterans, a commitment to service continues long after their military careers end. Agriculture can offer a new purpose and career path, and the Farmer Veteran Coalition is helping connect veterans with the resources and support they need to get started.
Texas Farmer and Veteran Diego Loredo with the Farmer Veteran Coalition joined Market Day Report on Veterans Day to discuss the organization’s mission, the challenges veterans face when entering agriculture, and how its programs are helping them build successful operations.
Connecting Veterans With Agricultural Opportunities
The Farmer Veteran Coalition is a national nonprofit headquartered in Waco, Texas. In his conversation with RFD-TV, Loredo said its mission is to empower veterans and active-duty service members with the education, training, funding, and other resources needed to pursue careers in agriculture.
He said many skills developed through military service translate naturally to farming and ranching.
“Veterans learned during their time in the military to stick to a strict schedule, not be afraid to get their hands dirty, and always be willing to adapt to the situation,” Loredo said.
He added that veterans often bring a strong sense of mission and a desire to serve their communities, qualities that can carry over into agricultural work.
Helping Veterans Navigate the First Steps
For veterans interested in agriculture, one of the biggest challenges is knowing where to begin.
Loredo said navigating the process can feel intimidating, particularly for those unfamiliar with agricultural programs and government resources.
That might mean visiting a Farm Service Agency office for the first time, obtaining a farm number, or applying for a loan.
The coalition helps veterans identify available resources and connect with the organizations and people who can help them move forward.
Grants Help Veterans Invest in Their Operations
One of the coalition’s key programs is the Farmer Veteran Fellowship Fund, an annual grant program that helps veterans buy equipment and invest in their farming operations.
Loredo said the most recent grant cycle provided $500,000 to more than 100 farmer veterans across 42 states.
Individual grants ranged from $3,000 to $5,000, helping recipients purchase equipment and take their operations to the next level.
He credited the program’s funders with making that support possible and helping veterans access resources they might otherwise struggle to obtain.
Celebrating Veterans in the Waco Community
Loredo also shared that the coalition was preparing to participate in Waco’s annual Veterans Day Parade. This marked the organization’s third year taking part in the community event.
Staff members planned to decorate a truck, walk in the parade, and hand out American flags to children and other attendees.
He said the event gives the community an opportunity to come together and recognize those who have served.
Support Beyond Agriculture
Loredo encouraged veterans interested in farming to reach out to the coalition, emphasizing that its support extends beyond agricultural resources.
The organization also works with partners who can help veterans find mental health resources and other assistance as they transition into civilian life.
His message to veterans was one of appreciation and continued support.
“Thank you for your service,” Loredo said. “If you need resources or any help, we are here to help you every step of the way.”
LEARN MORE: farmvetco.org
