Gutierrez Urges Texans to Reach out to Life-Saving Program
For Immediate Release: March 1, 2024
TEXAS – Wildfires in the Texas Panhandle have now destroyed over 1.25 million acres of land, killed two people, and displaced farming and ranching families as firefighting teams continue to try and control the blaze.
Families and individuals affected by the blaze are encouraged to reach out to AgriStress Helpline 24/7 at 833-897-2474. Trained crisis counselors are also available through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. The Texas Farm Bureau has established a fund to help farmers and ranchers affected by the Panhandle wildfires.
“Even the toughest people need help sometimes,” said Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller. “Not only does the agriculture industry have some of the highest rates of fatalities and injuries across all age groups, but also some of the highest rates of suicide. TDA’s AgriStress Helpline is a great resource for Texas farmers and ranchers for support tailored specifically to the agriculture industry.”
AgriStress, a program initiated by West Texas Senator Roland Gutierrez, is being praised for providing mental health treatment to farmers and rural homeowners affected by the devastating blaze.
Since its establishment in 2022, the helpline has successfully intervened in over 120 cases. In 2023, the agency increased rural mental health awareness and secured an additional $1 million from the Texas Legislature for the AgriStress Helpline for the 2024-2025 biennium
“Hardworking Texas agricultural producers and farmworkers endure backbreaking work to provide for others. Unfortunately, the agriculture industry is one of the top occupations with the highest percentage of deaths by suicide. This wildfire has only made things worse. There are some who have nothing left but what’s in the back of their truck. We have to provide mental health services and help these families get back on their feet,” said State Senator Roland Gutierrez, creator of the AgriStress program.
“Farmers often suffer through financial losses, chronic illness and pain, work-life imbalance, and physical and social barriers to accessing mental health services. We must ensure that they have easy access to mental health solutions, especially in this devastating time.”
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