Farmers in Ontario will have continued access to mental health support thanks to a $10 million investment from federal and provincial governments. The funding extends two key programs under Agriculture Wellness Ontario until the end of 2027.
The Farmer Wellness Initiative provides free, 24/7 counselling to farmers, farm workers, and their families in multiple languages, including English, French, and Spanish. This initiative addresses mental health challenges unique to the agricultural sector.
The Guardian Network trains community members to support farmers struggling with mental health. These Guardians can identify signs of distress, offer support, and connect individuals with mental health resources.
“Our government is taking action to improve access to mental health support services that better reflect the needs of people who are experiencing mental health challenges,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “Through this investment, our government is taking another step to ensure farmers, farm workers, and their families can connect to essential mental health services, tailored to their unique needs, building a healthier, more resilient sector.”
Funded under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), these initiatives are part of a broader effort to enhance the resilience of Canada’s agricultural sector. Sustainable CAP is a five-year, $3.5 billion program jointly funded by federal, provincial, and territorial governments.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.agriculturewellnessontario.ca.