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Ag groups call for farmer mental health funding

A coalition for more than 40 ag groups is calling for Congress to fully fund the Farmer and Rancher Stress Assistance Network in fiscal year 2020.

Federal Policy Director Erin Foster West with the National Young Farmers Coalition tells Brownfield the groups want to see the network funded at $10 million.

“This would fund mental health services for farmers through different nonprofit organizations, state organizations, and extension that can respond to the local need in their communities.”   

She tells Brownfield the National Young Farmers Coalition has made mental health a priority after one of their leaders in Washington state committee suicide.

“Farming is a tough job and for those living in rural areas, it can be really isolating.”   

Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network was reauthorized in the 2018 Farm Bill and in 2019, Congress approved a $2 million pilot program.  The coalition of supporters also includes the American Farm Bureau Federation and National Farmers Union.