FCC Renews Partnership with Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing to Support National Farmer Wellness Network & Crisis Line

For immediate release

Three-year, $1.8 million investment continues critical mental health crisis line for Canada's farming community

Regina, Saskatchewan, July 15, 2026 — Farm Credit Canada (FCC) and the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing (CCAW) today announced a renewed partnership to sustain and expand the National Farmer Wellness Network (NFWN) Crisis Line, 1-866-FARMS01 (1-866-327-6701).

The renewed investment of $1.8 million over three years ($600,000 annually) will allow the program to continue providing tailored, no-cost mental health and crisis support to Canada's farmers, farm families, and agricultural workers.

Since launching in February 2025, the National Farmer Wellness Network Crisis Line has connected agricultural workers across Canada with licensed mental health professionals trained through the Canadian Agricultural Literacy Program (CALP), specialists who understand the unique pressures of farming life. The renewal ensures that this vital service continues uninterrupted.

Farming remains one of Canada's most demanding occupations. Financial volatility, geographic isolation, unpredictable weather, and the emotional weight of caring for land and livestock create compounding mental health pressures that general support services are often ill-equipped to address. The NFWN Crisis Line was built specifically to meet farmers where they are, and this renewed commitment ensures it will keep doing so.

Quotes

Dr. Briana Hagen, Chief Executive Officer and Lead Scientist, Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing

"The response to the National Farmer Wellness Network Crisis Line since its launch has confirmed what we always knew, there is a deep and urgent need for mental health support that speaks the language of farming.

FCC's renewed investment means we can continue building on this foundation, reaching more farmers and agricultural workers who need immediate, culturally informed support. This partnership is about more than a phone line; it's about ensuring Canada's agricultural community knows it is seen, valued, and never alone."

Deborah Vanberkel, Chief Programming Officer, National Farmer Wellness Network

"Renewing this commitment means that farmers and farm families across Canada can continue to count on us, not just in a moment of crisis, but as part of an ongoing network of care. The trust that agricultural communities have placed in this program is something we do not take lightly. With FCC's continued support, we are able to grow that trust and deepen our reach into every province."

Justine Hendricks, President and Chief Executive Officer, FCC

"Farming and ranching asks a lot of people. Behind every operation are individuals and families managing uncertainty, long hours and immense responsibility. That's why FCC is proud to continue its support to the National Farmer Wellness Network so farmers and farm families have access to trusted mental health support from professionals who understand the unique realities of agriculture, whenever they need it."

Quick Facts

• The NFWN Crisis Line, 1-866-FARMS01 (1-866-327-6701), provides immediate, no-cost, confidential mental health and crisis support tailored to the agricultural community.

• FCC's renewed investment totals $1.8 million over three years ($600,000 per year).

• All mental health professionals are trained through the Canadian Agricultural Literacy Program (CALP), equipping them to understand the specific stressors of farming life.

• The program addresses key barriers to mental health care in agriculture, including geographic isolation, stigma, and lack of farm-specific resources.

• CCAW collaborates with provincial organizations to connect farmers with ongoing mental health support beyond the crisis line.

About the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing (CCAW)
The Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to making the mental health and wellbeing of Canadian farmers and agricultural communities a priority. CCAW leads evidence-based mental health programs, farm mental health research, advocacy, and education tailored to the unique challenges of agriculture. Learn more at ccaw.ca.

About FCC
FCC is the leading lender in Canadian agriculture and food. FCC invests in industry success through innovation, productivity and sustainability. Customers rely on FCC for financing, capital, AgExpert management software, knowledge and industry connections. As a trusted partner and commercial Crown corporation that reinvests profits into ag and food, FCC is essential in building a stronger, more prosperous food industry for all Canadians. fcc.ca 


For media inquiries, please contact: Dr. Briana Hagen, Chief Executive Officer and Lead Scientist in Canadian Farm Mental Health Research Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing (403) 497-4383 | bhagen@ccaw.ca