Bridge Funding- FRSAN: Southern Region (SAgE: Southern Ag Exchange)

Disasters can occur at any time and often with little warning. Disasters take many forms, and most areas of family life feel their effects, including mental health and well-being. Planning community outreach can be challenging because there is no “one-size-fits-all” disaster model. Although a natural disaster can devastate anyone, farm families may have additional considerations. This proposal will build upon the national award-winning Kentucky Cooperative Extension In the Face of Disaster program to design a disaster readiness and response toolkit for farm and rural families specific to the southern region. Mental health will be a key component. The toolkit guide will provide a variety of programming options and delivery methods, including (1) presentations, workshops, and webinars; (2) demonstrations and booths; and (3) community panels. The proposal will also continue our work in the arena of Mental Health First Aid. Providing funding for 50 participants that serve rural/agricultural audiences.