"You can't solve a problem you haven't taken the time to hear."

Meeting Farmworkers Where They Are

Sometimes, the most meaningful conversations don't happen in an office—they happen in the fields.

This week, Sanar Network partnered with AWARE Food Bank to visit farmworkers in Mount Angel, where we distributed food and, more importantly, listened. Our goal was simple: understand the barriers farmworkers face when trying to access health and mental health services and meet them where they are.

One of the biggest challenges we heard was access to the Oregon Health Plan (OHP). Many farmworkers finish their workday after local offices have already closed, making it difficult to enroll or get help with their benefits. Their feedback reminds us that access isn't just about having services available—it's about making those services available when people can actually use them.

During our visit, we also had the opportunity to speak with the farm owner, who shared that finding workers this season has been more difficult than in previous years, citing the impact of recent ICE enforcement activity. Despite these challenges, he invited us back in August during the garlic harvest so we can continue connecting with workers and sharing resources.

One conversation especially stayed with us. A farmworker shared that he didn't feel he needed mental health services because he had learned to keep moving forward through life's challenges. Moments like these remind us that building trust takes time. Before people seek support, they first need to know they are seen, respected, and understood.

At Sanar Network, we remain committed to meeting people where they are—building relationships with farmworkers, employers, and community partners so that mental health education and support are accessible to everyone.

Free Spanish Mental Health Resources

Looking for culturally relevant mental health materials for your clients or community?

Through our partner organization, Llama a un Amigo, you can access a growing collection of free Spanish-language psychology worksheets and educational resources that providers, community health workers, educators, and families can use.

👉 Access the free resources here:​
​https://llamaaunamigo.com/hojas-de-trabajo-de-psicologia​

Warmly,

Richi & Mariah Sede
Co-Founders, Sanar Network
SanarNetwork.com

P.S. We believe the best way to serve marginalized communities is by showing up where they are. If you'd like Sanar Network to provide a resource table or educational materials at your event, reply to this email to get connected.