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SFPA Urges Full Funding for Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network

SFPA Urges Full Funding for Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network

Washington, April 19, 2022 – The Sustainable Food Policy Alliance (SFPA) today joined a broad coalition of agriculture, rural and mental health professional organizations to urge Congress to fully fund the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) in fiscal year 2023.

“A strong need remains for FRSAN funding and programming. A Morning Consult poll conducted in December 2021 found that during that calendar year, most farmers and farm workers (61%) and rural adults (52%) reported experiencing more stress and mental health challenges compared to the prior year. The same poll also found that while stigma around seeking help or treatment for mental health has decreased, it remains a factor, especially in agriculture. Over the past year, the majority of rural adults and farmers and farm workers say there is at least some stigma around stress and mental health in their communities. Stigma can create barriers to seeking help, and programs like FRSAN are working hard to reduce stigma and increase access to assistance and services. […] This funding will be critically important in meeting the mental health needs of farmers, ranchers, and their families,” the letter reads.

Read the full letter here.

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