PROGRAMS

FARMER CARE PROGRAMS

 

Support for farmers' bodies, minds, and spirits — because sustainable agriculture starts with the people who grow our food.

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Real Farmer Care offers a growing suite of programs designed to meet farmers where they are. From direct self-care grants to mental health access and restorative retreats, every program is built around one belief: when farmers are cared for, everything they steward — the land, their families, their communities — is stronger for it.

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FARMER SELF-CARE GRANTS 

 

Since 2020, Real Farmer Care's flagship program has awarded self-care grants directly to farmers and ranchers — no strings attached. Starting Fall 2026, farmers can apply online for two grant types: the Immediate Care Grant ($200), for a single, immediate self-care need — a first therapy session, an initial body treatment after injury, or a restorative wellness visit — and the Sustained Care Grant ($1,000), for ongoing care across a farming season — a series of therapy sessions, multiple chiropractic or bodywork appointments, or sustained mental health support. Over 600 farmers across 45 states have already received a grant, each choosing exactly what care looks like for them: a massage, a therapy session, a gym membership, a night away from the farm.

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Eligibility:

 

You are eligible to apply if you—

• Farm or ranch in the contiguous United States or any U.S. territory

• Have an annual farming income of $1,000 or more

• Priority is given to farmers who have not previously received a Real Farmer Care grant

 

How It Works:

 

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed in the order received. Awards are distributed in seasonal rounds when funds are available. Late applications are held for future rounds. Grants are delivered either as mailed checks or ACH direct deposits.

 

Status Notice:

 

Applications will open Fall 2026 — add your email below to be notified.​

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FARMER SELF-CARE SUPPORT SURVEY

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Share Your Experience:

Farmer voices shape everything we do. If you have 10 minutes, please fill out our anonymous Self-Care Support Survey — your responses directly inform how we develop and expand our programs. We read every one.​

WHAT'S COMING

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Tending the Farmer Retreat

 

This Fall, we will bring a small group of farmers together for a multi-day restorative retreat. Peer connection, healing practices, and guided reflection in a space built entirely around the farmer. Attendance is fully subsidized — lodging, meals, and travel included.
Late October 2026 

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Online Therapy Access

 

We are piloting a program to connect 50–100 farmers with free online talk therapy for up to 12 months. For farmers in rural and isolated regions, access to mental health support is often limited by distance and cost. This program removes both barriers.

Coming 2027

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Every program we offer — and every farmer we reach — depends on donor support. A $200 gift funds one self-care grant. A larger gift helps us build the infrastructure to reach hundreds more.

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