CARE FARMING NETWORK BLOG

July 2, 2024

Fostering Farmers

Our 66th #FeatureFarmFriday is another #FutureFarmFriday! How cool is it to (literally) see the seeds of a new care farm being planted? 

Fostering Farmers ’ mission is to provide housing and employment on a non-profit farm to support young adults aging out of the foster care system in New Jersey, USA and help them transition to a self-sufficient, independent life. During their residence & employment on the farm, these young adults will:

  • Receive counseling
  • Continue with school to earn their high school diploma or obtain their GED
  • Learn business skills, cooperation, critical thinking, and develop interpersonal relationships needed for successful independent living as they transition off the farm and into their adult lives 
  • Earn an income and establish checking & savings accounts
  • Learn about budgeting and responsible spending & saving

If farming is not the correct career path for young adults, Fostering Farmers will provide guidance to determine if college, trade school, or joining the workforce is the correct path for their future.  One of the great things about farming is it involves many professions! Finance, marketing, project management, plumbing, soil science, mechanics, construction, and more! 

Located in: Monmouth County, NJ.

Founded in: 2023

Website: www.fosteringfarmers.org

Instagram: @fostering_farmers

Facebook: Fostering Farmer

June 9, 2024

View of Heaven Farm

Our 65th Featured Farm Friday, View of Heaven Farm (Loudoun County, Virginia), provides year-round living-wage meaningful employment opportunities to individuals in their neurodiverse and physically disabled community.

View of Heaven sells a variety of fresh produce and baked goods at at their own Farm Market every Saturday, and throughout the week at Spring House Farm Store. Customers can also preorder items through their online store for convenient pickup. The farm’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its pesticide-free produce and environmentally friendly farming techniques— this not only supports local agriculture but also promotes healthier food options for the community!

Inspired by the story of Thomas (which you can read in the “About” section of their website), View of Heaven Farm was established to create a nurturing workplace where neurodiverse individuals can thrive. The farm empowers them to develop their skills and enjoy a fulfilling work experience. Through their efforts, the farm not only enhances the lives of its workers but also fosters a sense of community and connection among all who are involved.

Our View of Heaven is a farm that provides meaningful employment to people of differing mental and physical abilities, pays a living wage and grows food using environmentally sustainable processes.

Located in: Loudoun County, Virginia.

Website: www.viewofheavenfarm.org.

Email: info@viewofheavenfarm.org 

June 7, 2024

June Monthly Member Gathering: How To (Better) Tell Your Care Farm’s Story

June’s monthly member gathering discusses how care farms are telling their stories in intriguing ways that capture the attention of local supporters, including local media outlets.

Guest Presenters include Care Farm employees from Greens Do Good and 21 Roots Farm.

Resources Shared at Member Monthly Gathering:

Watch the Recording

View the Presentation Slides

What Is Care Farming Video

Farm-based activities can support mental wellness. Why aren’t there more care farms in the U.S.?

21 Roots Farm Social Story presentation

Impact Report from Reed Autism Services

Join CFN’s Facebook Discussion Group– a great way to share  + promote resources, ask questions, and get support from other care farmers!