Homesteads for Hope is a 501c3 nonprofit inclusive community farm for individuals with and without disabilities to learn, work, live, and grow in nature’s classroom. Our Beautiful 55-acre Farm is located 10 minutes West of Downtown Rochester directly on the wide waters of the historic Erie Canal. Here, our classroom is in the great outdoors, which provides a peaceful and therapeutic environment for anyone who sets foot on it, no matter their ability level. In the past 5 years, we have built a series of programs, classes, memberships, and social events that bring people together and provide a sense of community where everyone is welcome. As we continue to grow, we are developing an inclusive workforce through enterprise on-site, and look forward to the creation of affordable housing for those we serve.
Since we purchased the 55-acre Farm in the Fall of 2016, our focus has been establishing a full life of opportunities which includes educational and vocational programming, enterprise creation for fair-paying jobs and inviting the greater community to join us for open to the public events and classes. In just 5 years, we have built a one-of-a-kind inclusive community that’s never been done before in Western. New York. Here in 2022, we are currently fundraising for the completion of Phase I and Phase II with critical capital improvements and fulfill our capacity needs, so that we can move forward with Phase III of 30 acres of Residential Housing.
30 of our 55 acres are dedicated to our residential housing village, which will serve adults of all abilities. We will use an inclusive model where those in need are paired with those who can help support their daily needs. Currently, we have over 600 families we serve and we can absolutely fill every available home with a person in need.
Ready! Set! Work! is the Farm's most popular learning experience and offers skills training for young adults with and without disabilities. We provide guided lessons and experiences that teach participants how to work in our 55-acre, nature-based classroom. RSW! is a hands-on learning approach to developing soft skills, life lessons, and work education that allows students to flourish in the greater community. This is all taught in the greenhouse, barns, farm store, indoor facilities, and around the entire farm. All apprentices should dress for all weather conditions, including appropriate boots.
Enrolled members are considered "apprentices" and will have the opportunity to learn to work in different business models at the farm as they develop. Further skills can be learned by volunteering at various enterprise models, including the CSA Farm Share, the Farm Store,the Farm Café, the Farm Office, the Event Barn Venue, the H4H Farmers Market, and the North Chili Farmer’s Market.
Location and Contact Information
2185 Manitou Road Rochester NY 14606-3211
Office: 585.352.4673
