Gov. Kathy Hochul announced $9.6 million in funding to expand mental health services in New York’s rural areas. This includes $7.6 million to create new Critical Time Intervention (CTI) teams in underserved regions and $2 million for a Farmers Supporting Farmers program, which will provide peer-driven support for agricultural communities facing industry-related stress.
CTI teams will collaborate with local hospitals to help individuals with mental health needs during transitions, ensuring continued access to services.
The Farmers Supporting Farmers initiative addresses increased behavioral health risks linked to economic stress in agriculture. Hochul emphasized her commitment to bridging service gaps in rural areas, which have higher suicide rates and fewer resources.
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