The Vermont Agency of Agriculture is very pleased to announce that Vermont dairy producers and their family members have a new ally. The FARM FIRST Program (FFP) – developed and run by the Invest Employee Assistance Program in collaboration with the Vermont Agency of Agriculture and the VT Farm Health Task Force − now partners with dairy producers to provide information and counseling services that are tailored to their unique and changing needs.

FARM FIRST is a specially designed farmer assistance program, intended to improve A New Ally for Dairy Farmers health, wellness and productivity among farmers and family members on Vermont’s dairy farms. FFP is staffed with licensed mental health providers and resource specialists statewide to provide confidential help for any concern. To reach a counselor, farmers call a dedicated toll-free line and, depending on the problem, are offered either in-person counseling appointments or concrete help with resource issues.

Farmers’ concerns currently being addressed by FARM FIRST include concrete needs for financial, legal or health care services, personal stress, depression or anxiety, relationship conflict, family problems, business challenges, decision-making and personnel management quandaries. In addition to providing confidential consultation and counseling, FARM FIRST staff researches stated needs to provide current information and resources of value to farmers who are working hard day and night to keep their farms running. Agricultural experts in both the public and private sectors are consulted by FARM FIRST staff as needed to provide linkages and valid information for Vermont dairy farmers.

Farm First Program Website
Farm First Program Sponsors

Across the Fence Episode

Across the Fence Episode