On a quiet farm in Cannington, the day's work is winding down. Myra McGowan, a third-generation
farmer, smiles as she watches her four children – Ava, Jimmy, Hendrika, and Hank – play in the
yard, their fingers stained a happy shade of purple from the wild blackberries they just picked
together. The sound of their laughter echoes through the fields, a sweet melody amidst the lush
greens.
"Farming is in my blood," Myra shares. "But it can be a hard life, especially
for families with young children." As she reflects on the anxieties that come with raising
kids on a farm, Myra admits, "As a mother, there’s always constant fear of something
happening... I couldn't bear losing one of my kids, especially losing them to something that
I love."
Myra McGowan,
third-generation-farmer
Born from tragedy, nurtured by the community
In 1987, the Durham farming community experienced a profound loss when three young children
tragically died in farming accidents within the same year. This tragedy started a movement
within the community to find solutions to further protect and support farm families, leading to
the founding of Durham Farm and Rural Family Resources (DFRFR).
In Myra's words, "On-farm care started as women in the farming community that just needed help"
and in its 36th year, the initiative continues to offer working parents like Myra a nurturing
place for their children to safely play and explore even as their parents attend to chores on
the farm.
A caring companion
Della, a childcare worker with DFRFR, has become a beloved part of the McGowan family. "I make
sure that the kids are safe while their parents are in the barn working," she says. "I got
involved last summer, and then have continued this summer because it was so amazing and it was
great."
Myra is grateful for Della's presence. "She's like another member of our family," Myra says.
"Knowing my children are safe and happy allows me to focus on the farm without constant worry."
Empowering farm communities
DFRFR's impact extends beyond the McGowan farm. With support from Hydro One's Energizing Life
Community Fund, they can reach more families in need this year.
"This support allows us to provide affordable, high-quality childcare to more
families in our community."
Heather Doner,
executive director, DFRFR
A network of support
DFRFR focuses on more than childcare; they offer a range of programs and services to support
rural families, including parenting workshops, mental health resources, and farm safety
education.
They strive to strengthen the fabric of Durham's farming community.
Brighter future for Ontario’s farm families
As the sun sets on another day, Myra feels a sense of peace and gratitude. Her children are safe
and happy. And with the support of DFRFR, she knows they'll have the tools they need to build a
bright future, "whether that's on the farm or beyond."
Join us in caring for Durham’s farm families. Discover how you can get involved and learn more
