About the Program
The International Agricultural Worker Wellness Program aims to address the unique mental health and wellness challenges faced by temporary international agricultural workers in Ontario. By providing culturally responsive mental health promotion, prevention workshops, and referrals to community services, the program will equip workers with the tools to manage stress, social isolation, and other wellness concerns. In collaboration with local CMHAs, farm management, and community coalitions, the program will deliver multilingual resources, accessible workshops, and outreach initiatives to promote psychological safety and wellbeing. Over two years, the program will be piloted in Windsor-Essex and Brant-Haldimand-Norfolk, impacting both workers and employers in creating healthier agricultural environments.
Background
The mental health and well-being of International Agricultural Workers (IAWs) in Ontario is increasingly recognized as an area requiring urgent attention. In April 2022, the Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers released a report that highlighted various psychosocial challenges faced by IAWs. Many of these challenges are related to their unique employment and legal status in Canada as well as their isolation from family, language and culture while working in Ontario.
IAWs contribute significantly to Ontario’s agricultural economy, particularly in regions like Haldimand-Norfolk and Windsor-Essex, where approximately 60% of IAWs reside. These workers face unique mental health challenges due to isolation, language barriers, and demanding work conditions. Mental health services that address their specific needs and provide outreach in a culturally appropriate manner are vital for ensuring their well-being.
Our Partners
This program joins the suite of mental health programs at Agriculture Wellness Ontario which is managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario Division. This program will be delivered in partnership with CMHA Windsor Essex and CMHA Brant-Haldimand Norfolk.
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Our Funders
This project is funded in part by the Governments of Canada and Ontario under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), a five-year, federal-provincial-territorial initiative.
