March 29, 2024 - Reedsburg, WI - Farmer Angel Network hosted a farm side chat with Senator Tammy Baldwin to discuss the mental health crisis among farmers. The group represented local dairy, beef and crop farmers, Wisconsin Farm Center, Farm Well Wisconsin, local healthcare organizations, and other partners working with Farmer Angel Network.
The group discussed the challenges facing farmers including the commodities markets, farm transitions, and work force shortages. They were able to share their experiences with some resources available to farmers, farm families and rural communities such as the Wisconsin Farm Center and 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Ideas were brought up for crisis responders and ways to improve the mental health resources available.
Thank you to Senator Baldwin and her team for listening and finding ways to improve the lives of our rural farming communities. Thank you also to Valley Springs Farm Bed & Breakfast. Owners Don and Dorothy Harms welcomed the discussion at their farm and even provided delicious homemade scones.
A news clip of the discussion is available here by WMTV15.
Photos provided by Maggie Keuler and Christy Wehler.
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