By Andi Anderson
A statewide mental health support program for Illinois farmers and their families has announced a new identity. Formerly known as the Farm Family Resource Initiative (FFRI), the program will now operate as FARM SOS. The change reflects the program's growth and ongoing mission to provide confidential assistance to agricultural communities throughout Illinois.
What started as a pilot project serving six counties has expanded significantly since its launch. Today, FARM SOS supports farm families across all 102 Illinois counties. Along with the new name, the program has introduced a new logo and launched a dedicated website, ILFARMSOS.COM, making it easier for individuals to access information and support services.
The initiative is a partnership between the SIU School of Medicine, the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA), and the Illinois Department of Human Services. Since 2019, the program has helped farm families address challenges related to financial pressures, operational difficulties, emotional stress, and personal hardships.
Karen Stallman, FARM SOS Program Coordinator, emphasized that the program's mission remains unchanged despite the rebranding. She said, "While our name is changing, our commitment to farm families remains the same. FARM SOS clearly communicates that we're here to provide support, connect people with resources and ensure no farm family has to face a crisis alone. Our hope is that this new identity not only makes it easier for farm families to find us but also encourages more conversations about mental health in agriculture across Illinois."
The importance of mental health support in agriculture continues to be a major concern. Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, highlighted the need for accessible services. He stated, "Farmers are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than the average person, and in the agricultural community, stigma surrounding mental health treatment often prevents those in need from seeking help. With FFRI, now FARM SOS, no one has to suffer in silence."
FARM SOS provides completely confidential assistance at no cost to Illinois farm families. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the helpline 1-833-FARM-SOS (1-833-327-6767). Trained professionals offer emotional support and connect callers with appropriate resources.
In addition, the program offers telehealth counseling services, providing up to six free counseling sessions for individuals, couples, and groups. Through its expanded identity and accessible services, FARM SOS aims to ensure that farm families receive the support they need while encouraging open conversations about mental health in agriculture.
Photo Credit: illinois-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Illinois, Sustainable Agriculture