Every summer, numerous mountain farming families need help to manage the intense season. When an accident, pregnancy, or essential construction and renovation work occur, it quickly stretches the mountain farmers to the edge of their capabilities.
Over 100 mountain farming families have already reached out to Caritas Schweiz requesting support. More than 400 volunteers have already booked their assignments. However, 600 more volunteers are needed for the 2026 season.
Most assignments take place between June and September. During this period, a particularly high volume of tasks arise: haymaking, tending to animals, mucking out barns, repairing fences, helping on the alpine pastures, or assisting in the household and with childcare. The work is physically demanding and often unfamiliar, but many volunteers see special value in their efforts.
Digital Detox on the Mountain Farm
For many volunteers, a mountain farm assignment means leaving their comfort zone, learning new things, and escaping daily life. They trade their office routine for barn work and mountain views, with direct encounters taking precedence, turning the assignment into a real "Digital Detox."
“Many volunteers report gaining valuable insights for their daily lives from their assignment,” says Kyra Renidear, media spokesperson for Caritas- Bergeinsatz. “Whether it be fostering more mindful interactions or reducing one's own stress.”
Bridge Between Urban and Rural
The mountain farm assignments not only directly support the farmers but also promote mutual understanding between urban and rural populations. Personal encounters and new perspectives emerge for both sides. "With the volunteers, a part of the big world comes to our kitchen table," says a mountain farmer.
We are looking for individuals aged between 18 and 70 who are motivated and mentally and physically fit, and speak the language of the mountain farming family. On www.bergeinsatz.ch, all the mountain farms in need of support are listed. Interested parties can easily book their mountain assignment online.
2026: UN Year of Women Farmers
Mountain agriculture heavily relies on family participation, where women have always played a vital role. Many women farmers handle responsibilities for family, animals, and the farm simultaneously, showcasing not only professional expertise but also mental and physical dedication. Nevertheless, their contributions often remain in the background: in Switzerland, only about 8 percent of agricultural enterprises are officially led by women. The UN Year of Women Farmers in 2026 brings the achievements of women in agriculture to the forefront, with the clear aim of making their vital importance visible worldwide and gaining more recognition.
We are happy to facilitate interviews or reports upon request.
Press Contact:
Kyra Renidear, media spokesperson for Caritas-Bergeinsatz
041 419 20 61
krenidear@caritas.ch