Farm Family Resource Initiative

The Southern Illinois University School of Medicine Center for Rural Health and Social Service Development (CRHSSD) is leading the effort to build a 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 offers 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 Helpline is a confidential service available 24/7 to all Illinois farm families. By calling or texting 1-833-FARMSOS (1-833-327-6767) or emailing FarmFamilyResourceHelpline@mhsil.com, individuals can receive support from trained professionals who understand the unique challenges faced by those in the agricultural sector. The helpline offers specialized assistance, including mental health resources and agriculture-related support, ensuring that farm families have access to the help they need.

In addition to the helpline, the FFRI provides telehealth counseling services with SIU Medicine counselors, offering up to six free sessions for individuals, couples, or groups. This comprehensive approach ensures that farm families receive the necessary support to maintain both their mental and physical health, acknowledging the unique stressors of the agricultural lifestyle.

To learn more about the Farm Family Resource Initiative and its services, or to sign up for telehealth counseling sessions, please contact Karen Leavitt Stallman at 618-713-0759 or email ffri@siumed.edu. Follow the FFRI on facebook and YouTube.

Josh Reinhardt and his wife Emily provide a window into their life as farmers, sharing the generational legacy of their family's farm and the inherent challenges that come with it. They candidly discuss the unpredictable nature of farming, with weather and prices beyond their control, as well as the unique stressors faced by farming families working long hours together. They highlight the issue of farm stress and the reluctance within the community to seek help due to pride and self-reliance. The Reinhardt's encourages farmers and farm families to start a conversations with trusted individuals.

Meet Josh and Emily

Gain insight into the realities of farm life and the unique challenges faced by farm families in Illinois. In this video, farmers share their personal experiences, highlighting the mental and physical health needs that are often overlooked in rural communities.

This video was created by The Colorado Farm Bureau, and we are grateful for their contribution in shedding light on the important issues faced by farm families.

AgriSafe Nurse Scholar Program

The AgriSafe Nurse Scholar program is a distance learning opportunity designed for rural nurses. Experienced health & safety educators share their expertise in prevention, identification, and assessment of diseases related to agricultural work exposures. Classes are in the form of webinars to be viewed on your own time. Nurses who complete this course will be eligible for 23 hours of continuing nursing education.

Applications are open for the 2024 Nurse Scholar program. There are scholarships available for 125 individuals.
To be eligible to receive a scholarship, nurses must:
• Be employed by a rural health clinic, FQHC, government agency, non-profit hospital or organization, or work in academia
• Demonstrate an interest and ability to integrate learnings into their practices
• Work in a rural and medically

Learn more or apply for scholarship