FCC renews support for national farm mental health crisis line
Farm Credit Canada (FCC) is extending its support for the National Farmer Wellness Network (NFWN) Crisis Line with a $1.8 million investment over the next three years.
The funding, announced July 15 in partnership with the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing (CCAW), will provide $600,000 annually to ensure the specialized mental health service remains available to farmers, farm families and agricultural workers across Canada.
The National Farmer Wellness Network Crisis Line, launched in February 2025, offers free, confidential crisis and mental health support through licensed professionals trained to understand the unique challenges of agriculture. Those professionals receive specialized training through the Canadian Agricultural Literacy Program (CALP).
According to the organizations, farming presents unique mental health challenges, including financial uncertainty, geographic isolation, unpredictable weather and the emotional demands of caring for land and livestock.
CCAW Chief Executive Officer Dr. Briana Hagen said the response to the crisis line since its launch has demonstrated a significant need for agriculture-specific mental health services.
"The response to the National Farmer Wellness Network Crisis Line since its launch has confirmed what we always knew, there is a deep and urgent need for mental health support that speaks the language of farming," Hagen said.
She said FCC's renewed investment will allow the organization to expand its reach while continuing to provide culturally informed support for Canada's agricultural community.
National Farmer Wellness Network Chief Programming Officer Deborah Vanberkel said the renewed funding ensures farmers and their families will continue to have access to support during times of crisis and beyond.
FCC President and CEO Justine Hendricks said the organization is committed to supporting the people behind Canada's farms and ranches.
"Farming and ranching asks a lot of people," Hendricks said. "That's why FCC is proud to continue its support to the National Farmer Wellness Network so farmers and farm families have access to trusted mental health support from professionals who understand the unique realities of agriculture."
The National Farmer Wellness Network Crisis Line can be reached toll-free at 1-866-FARMS01 (1-866-327-6701). The service is free, confidential and designed specifically for Canada's agricultural community. It also works with provincial organizations to connect callers with ongoing mental health supports when needed.