WBGZ Radio 4/2/2021 | By Kevin Bessler - Illinois Radio Network Nearly every industry has felt the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, and the farming and agriculture industry in Illinois is no exception. In light of the challenges faces by farmers this year, SIU Medicine in Carbondale along with the Illinois Department of Agriculture has launched a new program called the Farm Family Resource Initiative. The goal of the pilot program is to improve the mental and physical wellbeing of Illinois farm owners and their families. Karen Stallmann, an Agriculture Resource Specialist at SIU, said someone should be there if an Illinois farmer needs a helping hand.