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COLUMBIA, Mo. – As Missouri farmers and farm families look to 2026, planning and budgeting for health insurance and child care is essential. A free two-part webinar series from University of Missouri Extension, Whole Farm Family Planning for the 21st Century, helps farmers make choices tailored to their farm and family needs.
“Health insurance and child care options are essential considerations for farm and rural families, whether it’s young folks returning to the farm or older farmers navigating their senior years,” said Amie Breshears, MU Extension field specialist in agricultural business. “This program helps farmers understand the options and implement solutions that work for them.”
Breshears will present the program with MU Extension field specialist Jake Hefley, who noted that health insurance plans and premiums can change regularly, making it important for farmers to stay informed. “Child care can also be hard to find, especially in rural communities, so families benefit from thinking ahead and exploring available options,” he said.
The two free virtual sessions are noon-1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, and Thursday, Jan. 22:
- Jan. 20 – Child care: How child care affects labor and safety, where child care costs fit in the budget and practical child care options for farm families. Ideal for those with or planning for children.
- Jan. 22 – Health insurance: How health insurance supports risk management, budgeting for coverage and options suited to variable farm income. Ideal for farmers reviewing insurance or planning for family changes.
Participants may register for one or both sessions.
“These informal, interactive programs provide valuable information and resources and offer opportunities to connect with others facing similar challenges,” Breshears said. “They are open to all.”
For more information, contact Amie Breshears at 660-438-5012 or abreshears@missouri.edu, or Jake Hefley at 417-546-4431 or jhefley@missouri.edu.