The Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing (CCAW) continues to gain support and build resources.

Yesterday, during the CCAW's first National Symposium on Agricultural Mental Health, Federal Agriculture Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau announced up to $168,440 to help the group spread awareness and multiply the resources available to the ag sector.

She says farmers have a very demanding job and deal with a lot of stress.

"Mental health issues are so often taboo in the sector, which is why initiatives like the ones created by the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing are so essential to open the dialogue and, ultimately, save lives."

The CCAW was initially launched in November of 2022, and brings together national and global leaders in the agricultural mental health field to conduct research, develop programming and education related to the well-being of Canadian farmers.

The mission of the new not-for-profit organization is to lead research and roll out initiatives in collaboration with community organizations across the country to address farmers' wellness challenges.

Dr. Briana Hagen, Chief Executive Officer and Lead Scientist, Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing says they are very pleased to work in partnership with Agriculture and Agri-food Canada to develop evidence-based programming and supports for the well-being of Canadian farmers. 

"Together, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing, will continue to eliminate barriers to accessing mental health services across the Country."

Ottawa continues to work with the provinces and territories on policies, programs and services that can further support projects that specifically address the mental health issues of workers in the ag sector.