Farm Family Support Centre Opens

Establishment of a support centre to help Nova Scotia farmers and their families deal with the unique stresses of farm life has been announced by Ernest Fage, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.

The Farm Family Support Centre, a joint effort of the province, the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture and the Nova Scotia Farm Health and Safety Committee will offer a free and confidential consultation and referral service for Nova Scotian farm families seeking assistance in areas such as financial consultation, family conflicts, anger and stress management and dispute resolution.

"As a farmer I recognize the many stresses farmers and their families can experience," said Mr. Fage. "We hope they will contact the support centre and take advantage of this valuable program."

"Farmers deserve credit for working hard to deal with problems beyond their control, such as weather and volatile markets," said Liz Crouse, chairperson of the Nova Scotia Farm Health and Safety Committee. "However, sometimes they or their families need help to deal with overwhelming situations. This centre can provide that assistance."

The Farm Family Support Centre was originally a one-year pilot project of the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture and Nova Scotia's Adaptation Council.

Farmers and their families can call toll-free 1-877-418-7555 to speak to a councillor who understands the challenges farm families are facing. Mirkwood Mediation Services, who provided services during the one-year pilot program, will continue to do so at 30 Duke St., Truro.