Update – AgKnow

Resolution E2-23

In June of this year AgKnow, Alberta Farm Mental Health Network sent letters of urgent need to stakeholders including the 69 ASBs in response to a challenge issued by Wheatland County to support the initiative with letters of support and modest donations to help bridge the funding gap between grants. Since then ASBs, individual farms, and agriculture businesses have been stepping up to the plate to help bridge the funding gap and contribute to the 40% industry matching dollars that will be needed if the provincial grants are successful.

“Wheatland County’s Agricultural Service Board would like to express their support for the important mission and vision that the AgKnow Program is undertaking in agricultural communities …This program serves as one of the only avenues for farmers, ranchers to seek support and find relief in discussing mental health issues they may not feel secure in sharing with professionals that do not have agricultural backgrounds.” Agriculture Service Board Chair, Wheatland County

AgKnow remains hopeful about securing a 3.5-year project funding grant, potentially in November. Two additional grants may also follow, but their approval is uncertain. In the meantime, they are currently seeking funding to cover October and November.

“We have excellent engagement and support from the province for a multi year project funding that will require 40% matching from industry and stakeholders. It is a big project and has taken careful consideration from the provincial staff that are working with ARECA to get a successful application.” Linda Hunt, AgKnow Director 

AgKnow – Alberta Farm Mental Health Network, an initiative created in response to the high levels of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation found in recent research within the agriculture communities. Momentum behind the initiative started as far back as 2019 with resolutions passed by RMA, ASB and commodity groups, as well as advocacy from the agriculture business community asking for farm specific mental health resources and services. 

A comprehensive needs assessment along with a jurisdictional scan for similar initiatives across Canada and continued engagement with key stakeholders like the ASB and commodity associations has shaped AgKnow into what it is today.

“Its really important to us that the diversity of Alberta farms are represented in everything we do, and that we are directed by the needs of Alberta farm families, employees, and industry.” Linda Hunt, AgKnow Director.

Much of the development and pilots of this initiative so far has been funded by the provincial government through the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership supplemented with some industry partnerships.

“Its not just about cash donations. People genuinely care and want to see supports that work, so they volunteer. We have volunteers helping with engagement for funding, participating in our media, providing work space… You name it. Its a great initiative to work on and see how the community of agriculture bands together to help their own.”

ASB donations have varied between $1000-5000, with many asking for applications to municipal programs that can provide annual contributions. The funding goal is $30,000/month for operations and programming, along with $30,000 to re-open the free counselling pilot program for six months. 

The Porch Light Society is hosting their first annual gala “A Night Out in November” with FCC and Olds Collage, proceeds going to AgKnow on November 2 in Olds. You can support with with silent auction items, or buy tickets through either AgKnow’s event page or the PorchLightSociety.ca website.

Related Links

• Resolution E2-23 : STABLE FUNDING FOR FARM MENTAL HEALTH,
• AGI Response to Resolution E2-23
• This May farmers and ranchers were specifically named as a group needing targeted responses in the National Suicide Prevention Action Plan.
• AgKnow Annual Report
• To donate to AgKnow