The Prince Edward Island Federation of Agriculture is offering a new confidential counselling service that will be provided free of charge for farmers, their families and employees to help them deal with stress-related issues. The Farmer Assistance Program will provide trained, experienced and bilingual counsellors to offer guidance and support for those facing difficult times.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture is providing financial support for the program.
“Farmers are constantly facing demands and stresses in their daily lives and, with the current situation facing many commodities, financial concerns are often at the root of many stress-related problems,” said Robert MacDonald, president of the Federation. “This program will be able help farm families and their employees deal with a wide range of problems that affect their personal well-being and work performance.”
The program will provide a range of services, including individual and family assessment, counselling and referrals and consultation and support services. The service is available 24 hours a day.
“I recognize that many farmers are going through very difficult and uncertain times,” said Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Kevin MacAdam. “This new program reflects our commitment to help ensure the health and well-being of farm families and workers.”
The counsellors are Jan Henry, Caroline LeBlanc and Frank MacAulay. They can be reached at (902) 894-8006 or toll free at 1-800-736-8206.