As the fall harvest season begins, Ontario’s fruit and vegetable growers are paying close attention to both their crops and the wellbeing of international agricultural workers (IAWs). These workers are vital year-round, but the busy harvest makes it even more important to ensure their living conditions and overall experience are a priority. Recent efforts show a strong commitment to improving their wellbeing during their time here.
Recognizing the challenges that IAWs face, the Ontario and Canadian governments, in collaboration with farmers and agricultural organizations, have introduced several initiatives to enhance their experience and ensure a positive outcome.
A recent announcement revealed an expansion to the Farmer Wellness Initiative to include IAWs. This new initiative will allocate up to $538,000 to boost mental health services for IAWs, addressing the unique pressures they face.