Click here to sign up for our free daily newsletter.
2026 Community Fund for Mental Health Opens, Continuing National Partnership to Support Rural Communities

2026 Community Fund for Mental Health Opens, Continuing National Partnership to Support Rural Communities

Mar 30, 2026 | 10:31 AM

The Do More Agriculture Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 Community Fund for Mental Health, presented in partnership with Farm Credit Canada (FCC).

Now in its 8th year, the Community Fund supports rural and agricultural communities across Canada to access mental health education and training that builds confidence, expands understanding, and fosters action, connection and resilience.

Each year, the Fund invites applications from community groups and non-profits ready to lead mental health learning in their farming region. The 2026 application period opens March 30 and will remain open until April 30. Successful applicants receive funding and support to host mental health conversation and learning workshops.

“Across Canada, communities are stepping up, recognizing the unique stresses faced in agricultural life, and taking action by hosting workshops locally,” said Merle Massie, Executive Director of The Do More Agriculture Foundation. “Our partnership with FCC has helped thousands of rural Canadians increase their courage and confidence to help themselves and one another.”

In 2026, the Community Fund will provide rural and agricultural communities with access to Talk Ask Listen, the Foundation’s flagship mental health literacy workshop. By participating, communities can build confidence in starting informed conversations about mental health, develop practical support skills, and strengthen local networks to help individuals and families thrive.

“Canadian farmers face persistent stressors and the toll on their mental health is real. Through our partnership with The Do More Agriculture Foundation, we are helping to build a future where every farmer has the support, understanding and resources they need to thrive,” said Carla Warnyca, Manager, Community Investment, Farm Credit Canada. “When people have access to the right resources and feel supported in their communities, it strengthens families, farms and the future of Canadian agriculture.”

In 2025, the Community Fund received applications from nearly 80 communities across 11 provinces and territories, resulting in 42 workshops delivered across 7 provinces — a 31% increase from 2024. This reflects the powerful and growing grassroots commitment to mental health education in Canadian agriculture. Massie adds, “For 2026, we are challenging Canadian agricultural communities to show up for one another. Let’s fill the halls – and we’ll see you there.” The Community Fund welcomes submissions from diverse non-profit community groups and organizations based in rural and agricultural regions, and encourages potential applicants to learn more and explore eligibility criteria at www.domore.ag/community-fund.

About The Do More Agriculture Foundation: The Do More Agriculture Foundation (Do More Ag) is Canada’s national champion for mental health in agriculture. Through its three pillars of action for awareness, community for connection, and resources for support, the foundation works to cultivate a culture of mental wellbeing within Canadian agricultural communities. Stay connected at www.domore.ag.