GOVERNOR J-B PRITZKER IS ANNOUNCING AN EXPANSION OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR FARMERS ACROSS THE STATE. 

A 500-THOUSAND FEDERAL GRANT WILL BE USED TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR STRUGGLING FARMERS TO CONNECT WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS SAYS THE GOVERNOR. THAT INCLUDES IMPLEMENTING A HOTLINE STATEWIDE, WITH OPTIONS FOR TEXTING AND EMAILING TO FIND RESOURCES AS WELL.

ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE DIRECTOR JERRY COSTELLO SAYS IT’S A SERVICE THAT IS NEEDED.

THE MONEY WILL ALSO BE USED TO TRAIN MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS IN THE UNIQUE CHALLENGES THOSE WORKING IN THE AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY FACE.