AIM Independent Living Center’s Farmers Supporting Farmers Program provides peer-driven mental wellness and business support for farmers, agribusiness workers, and their families.
Farmers Supporting Farmers serves all of New York State, with a focus on the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions.
Services include mental wellness support, delivered by peer support advocates, for individuals and their family members, as well as technical assistance focused on financial wellness, business operation and planning, and decision making.
Program staff can also connect individuals with behavioral healthcare, community resources, and social services as needed.
All services are free and confidential. Our team has broad experience in agriculture and mental wellness.
Farmers Supporting Farmers is funded by the New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH).
The program was developed in response to the well-documented link between economic crises and the resulting stress that puts farm workers and their families at an increased risk for poor behavioral health outcomes.
For more information, call the Farmers Supporting Farmers Helpline at (888) 328-7847.
AIM does not provide crisis response services. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide, please call or text 988 for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Meet Our Team
Katie Basu, LCSW-R
Senior Director
Originally from New York’s Southern Tier, Katie brings over 20 years of experience in mental health and a lifelong appreciation for the land and community. As a licensed clinical social worker, she has led large-scale programs within the Department of Veterans Affairs and been recognized nationally for her work expanding access to care and reducing suicide risk among rural residents. Rooted in a love for nature and helping others, Katie enjoys exploring trails and national parks with her family.
Tim Parker
Director of Business Development
An Oklahoma native with deep agricultural roots, Tim combines expertise in chemistry, business, and hands-on farm experience. After beginning his career with the Department of Agriculture, he spent over two decades leading and supporting major agricultural businesses. His background in budgeting, forecasting, and supply management gives him a strong foundation for helping farmers strengthen their operations. Tim is passionate about using his knowledge to support the farming community and help producers build long-term stability and success.
James Hardy
Agricultural Support Mentor
Raised in a small farming town in Western New York, James has spent his life immersed in agriculture and community. Alongside his wife and four children, he operates a small ethical goat dairy, where they share their love of farming and agricultural education. With a deep respect for the hard work and dedication of farmers, James is passionate about ensuring they receive the understanding, support, and resources they’ve long deserved to keep their operations thriving.
Claire Byrne
Agricultural Support Mentor
Raised on a small farm in downstate New York, Claire has dedicated her life to agriculture and community growth. A longtime 4-H leader and founder of a global seed library, she also managed community gardens serving local food pantries. Now building her own homestead, Claire brings her passion for resilience and connection to her role as an Agricultural Support Mentor, helping New York farmers access the guidance, care, and resources they need to thrive.
Chris Brothers
Agricultural Support Mentor
Originally from the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, Chris brings years of experience in the dairy and equine industries to the Farmers Supporting Farmers team. She has managed farms, operated a 24-hour feed and livestock supply store, and volunteered to support older adults through financial planning programs. With deep agricultural roots and a heart for community, Chris is passionate about helping farmers and strengthening the rural communities that depend on them.
The staff in AIM’s Farmers Supporting Farmers program have completed FarmResponse, an on-demand 3.5-hour continuing education course developed by national experts from the AgriStress Response Network. The course provides the full range of competencies necessary to provide appropriate mental healthcare for agricultural producers and their families.
