New helpline launched for Illinois farmers

The Farm Family Resource Initiative, a joint pilot program of SIU School of Medicine and the Illinois Department of Agriculture is leading the effort to build a statewide network of support and resources for Illinois farm families.

The purpose of the initiative is to provide a range of resources including a helpline to assist with farmer and farm-related issues that include mental and physical health needs. 

Additionally, the initiative will offer ongoing outreach, education and training to rural clients and partners working to improve the health and safety of farm families.
The Farm Family Resource Initiative seeks to improve the health and well-being of Illinois farm owners and families by:

• Identifying farm family needs, including mental health needs
• Identifying available resources for farm families
• Creating new resources for farm families
• Developing a network of partners to respond farm family needs

The confidential helpline is now available to assist farmers with mental and physical health needs in 6 central Illinois pilot counties: Christian, Logan, Macon, Macoupin, Morgan, and Sangamon.

If you are a farmer or a farm family from these counties and you need support, call the 24 hour helpline at 1-833-FARM-SOS (1-833-327-6767).