MINERAL POINT, Wis. — A local family is introducing a peer support organization for farmers in southern Wisconsin while honoring a late family member.
McKenna Reichling has launched the Southwest Wisconsin chapter of the Farmer Angel Network to bring peer support, mental health education and community connection to farmers and farm families across Lafayette and Grant counties.
The chapter was founded in memory of 24-year-old Myles Reichling, who died by suicide in 2018 while farming with his family outside Mineral Point.
“Farmers are used to carrying a lot on their own,” McKenna said. “We want folks in our area to know there’s a place to turn — people who understand — and support that fits rural life.”
According to the Farmer Angel Network of South Central Wisconsin, farmers die by suicide at a rate 3.5 times that of the general population. The risk varies by several factors, often driven by financial stress, weather uncertainty, long hours, rural isolation and market volatility.
The Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with McKenna to wrap a patrol vehicle with mental health messaging.
The chapter also has been working with Mound State Park Natural Area to install 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline signage, ensuring that in outdoor spaces where people often go to think or cope, the path to help is clearly marked.
Community members, farmers, and partners are invited to visit farmerangelnetwork.com or contact McKenna directly at mckenna@farmerangelnetwork.com or (608) 574-5750.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or considering suicide, there are resources available to help. Calling 988 nationwide will connect you to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. In Dane County, Journey Mental Health Center has a 24/7 suicide prevention hotline at 608-280-2600.
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