How is mental health support being extended for farm workers?

Introduction

Earlier this year, the program was expanded to cater to the needs of Spanish-speaking agricultural workers working in the province, with approximately $178,000 allocated to support the delivery of services in Spanish.

Future Job Outlook

The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) forecasts that the agriculture sector will have about 100,000 unfilled job positions by the year 2030.

Crisis Counselling and Support Services

The Farmer Wellness Initiative offers crisis counselling, risk assessments, and face-to-face, phone, or video sessions with a counsellor.

“As a farmer myself, I know that farmers and folks working on our farms often work long hours and face unique challenges that can make it difficult to prioritize their mental health,” said agriculture and agri-food minister Lawrence MacAulay. “Through this initiative under Sustainable CAP, mental health resources will be more accessible, providing these hard-working people the tools they need, when they need them most.”

Government Commitment

The expansion of the services reflects the provincial government’s commitment to assist farmers, farm workers, and their families with their mental health concerns, says Rob Flack, Ontario’s minister of agriculture, food and agribusiness.