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.
Workshops for International Agricultural Workers
Our workshops are designed to address the unique mental health needs of international agricultural workers by providing practical tools and strategies. These workshops aim to foster connection, resilience, and overall well-being among international agricultural workers.
Current Workshops:
Understanding Loneliness & Building Community
This workshop explores the challenges of transitioning to a new country and culture, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and finding support. Participants learn practical ways to establish connections and strengthen their sense of belonging while working away from home.
Managing Stress
This workshop helps participants recognize how stress shows up and understand its impact on their well-being, especially in the farming environment. It provides practical strategies to manage stress effectively, helping workers stay resilient and focused during demanding times.
To book a workshop in the Windsor-Essex area, please e-mail mws@cmha-wecb.on.ca.
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.
Stay in Touch
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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.
