Wake Up Tri-Counties: Katie from the Henry County Farm Bureau Talks Upcoming Events, Road Safety During Planting Season, and Mental Health Awareness Month
Katie Laleman from the Henry County Farm Bureau joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss upcoming events, road safety during the planting season, the Henry County Fair, and Mental Health Awareness Month. Planting season is underway in Henry County, though recent wet and cold weather has left some farmers feeling behind. Safety is top of mind, as farm equipment remains on the roads—drivers are urged to slow down and watch for large machinery. The Farm Bureau encourages residents to support educational initiatives through “Birdies for Charity” and to register for the Foundation’s Golf Fun Day on August 14th at Baker Park. The Henry County Fair arrives June 16–21, with the annual Pedal Pull moving to Wednesday at the grandstand stage. May is also recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month.
Golf enthusiasts and agriculture supporters are marking their calendars for August 14th, 2026, as the Henry County Farm Bureau Foundation announces its annual Golf Fun Day at Baker Park in Kewanee. The event promises a day of friendly competition and community spirit, with proceeds supporting local agricultural education initiatives. Organizers have begun booking tee times, urging interested players and teams to reserve their spots early to ensure participation. Whether swinging for the greens or cheering from the sidelines, attendees can look forward to a lively atmosphere and opportunities to connect with fellow supporters of Henry County’s farming community.
Call the farm bureau office at 309-937-2411, email [email protected], or visit the “Henry County Farm Bureau” Facebook Page for more information or to reserve a spot.
The annual Birdies for Charity campaign is underway, offering a chance to support the Henry County Farm Bureau Foundation. Donations help fund the Ag in the Classroom program, student scholarships, and additional educational initiatives. To participate, visit birdiesforcharity.com/donate and search for the Henry County Farm Bureau Foundation or entry 2161. Your contribution directly benefits agricultural education and local students. Every donation counts, helping build a stronger future for agriculture in the community. For those interested in supporting these vital programs, this is a meaningful opportunity to make an impact.
Mental health is an urgent issue in agriculture, with farmers and ranchers facing suicide rates several times higher than the general population due to intense stress, financial pressures, and isolation. During Mental Health Month, support is available for Illinois farm families through the Farm Family Resource Initiative Helpline at 1-833-FarmSOS (1-833-327-6767). National resources include the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK, the Crisis Text Line (text TALK to 741-741), SAMHSA at 1-800-662-HELP, and more. No one needs to face these challenges alone—help is free, confidential, and only a call or text away. Find more resources at the “Illinois Farm Bureau website.”
Helpline: 1-833-FarmSOS or 1-833-327-6767 – Serves farm families across the entire state of Illinois
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Crisis Text Line: Text TALK to 741-741 – Text with a trained counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Farm Aid Farmer Hotline: 1-800-FARM-AID (1-800-327-6243)
Avera Farm and Rural Stress Hotline: 1-800-691-4336
Illinois Warm Line: 1-866-359-7953 (call) or 1-866-880-4459 (text)
Farm Bureau membership in Illinois offers significant advantages for those supporting family farms across the state. Members have saved more than $2 million in the past year through exclusive discounts on travel, equipment, and other essentials. The organization provides resources, advocacy, and a sense of community, all designed to strengthen Farm, Family, and Food in Illinois. Those interested in joining or learning about the variety of benefits available can visit the “Henry County Farm Bureau website” or get in touch by calling 309-937-2411 or emailing [email protected]. Membership is open, and new members are welcome to take part.
To discover more about these benefits and explore how you can join this network of support, visit ilfb.org/membership/benefits.