The Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program will be able to sustain and expand its professional counselling services thanks to a funding commitment from the provincial and federal governments.
The two-year, $300,000 commitment comes from the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
In making the joint announcement, Manitoba Agriculture minister and Dauphin MLA Ron Kostyshyn said the continued funding will allow the program to expand services, maintain timely access to counselling and support those in underserved areas such as farm employees and agricultural service providers.
The MFWP was created in response to the increasingly complex challenges farmers face
The program is designed specifically for the agriculture community and provides counselling services delivered by professionals with agricultural literacy, who understand the unique stressors farmers, farm families and agricultural employees face.
Since its launch in 2022, the program has steadily expanded, with participation and counselling sessions increasing.
It continues to promote mental wellness and coping strategies through workshops, presentations and multimedia resources, reaching farmers, families and workers across Manitoba.
