Overview
The Distressed Borrowers Assistance Network (DBAN) helps farmers, ranchers and foresters who are facing financial distress by providing one-on-one support that is tailored for their unique challenges. Through our network of trained direct service providers, we offer personalized assistance to producers and connect producers with valuable resources to build their financial strength and long-term resilience.
We focus on connecting producers with local direct service providers and farm support organizations in their communities, helping to build lasting relationships and ongoing support when they need it most.
DBAN strives to:
- Provide direct support and technical assistance to help farmers recover financially;
- Help farmers more easily access Farm Service Agency (FSA) Farm Loan Program, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) service programs and other beneficial resources;
- Build the skills of direct service providers so they can better support farmers with tailored assistance;
- Train the next generation of direct service providers; and
- Support farmers in achieving stable and healthy financial futures.
DBAN was inspired by the crucial work of direct service providers during the Farm Crisis of the 1980s, who fought to keep their fellow farmers and neighbors on the land. Learn more about the 1980s Farm Crisis, the role of direct service providers and the work of Farm Aid, RAFI, FLAG and University of Arkansas in supporting farmers.
Who is involved in DBAN?
DBAN is a collaborative effort led by Farm Aid, Rural Advancement Foundation International (RAFI), Farmers’ Legal Action Group (FLAG), and University of Arkansas, and funded by USDA.
The farm-support organizations participating in DBAN have proven experience in serving agricultural producers and have earned the trust of their farming communities. They provide personalized support, technical assistance, outreach services, and connections to valuable resources and referrals.
Our Approach
DBAN offers practical trainings, useful resources and thoughtful network facilitation to help individuals and organizations strengthen their capacity to reach and serve farmers in need. We create a supportive community where direct service providers from across the United States can share what works, learn from one another and find more effective ways to help farmers facing financial distress.
Our training spans a wide range of topics–from financial, technical and interpersonal skills–emphasizing approaches that respect each farmer’s unique situation.
By strengthening the skills of direct service providers and encouraging collaboration across participating organizations, DBAN helps financially distressed farmers:
- Get a clear picture of their financial situation and explore their options;
- Connect with helpful services and resources that can improve their financial health and stability; and
- Build stronger and more resilient farming operations for the long-term.
How DBAN Makes a Difference
- We connect farmers facing financial distress with skilled direct service providers who offer tailored, one-on-one support and technical assistance on improving financial stability.
- We help direct service providers develop the knowledge and skills they need to guide farmers through complex financial challenges and support their long-term financial health and stability.
Access Our Materials
DBAN training resources are freely available to support direct service providers working with financially distressed farmers. We encourage farm-support organizations and individuals to share these materials widely throughout their networks.
