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Story perspectives

Georgia Farmer Faces Loan Crisis Amid Rising Costs

3/24/2026

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Story summary
  • Chris Towns, a blueberry farmer in Alma, Georgia, borrowed $125,000 and later $495,000 through federal relief loans to sustain his business.
  • Rising costs for labor and fertilizer, freezes, and Hurricane Helene destroying half his crop worsened his finances.
  • He struggles to cover interest payments and fears falling behind on his loans, risking government collections.
  • The case reflects issues within a pandemic relief program that may burden taxpayers more than expected.