Shavertown, Pennsylvania
Nestled on 428 acres of scenic countryside, The Lands at Hillside Farms is a historic, non-profit educational dairy farm with a mission that reaches far beyond its fences. As a 501(c)(3) organization, Hillside Farms is dedicated to teaching life choices that are healthy, logical, and sustainable—ensuring that future generations, even 200 years from now, have access to the same or better opportunities and resources.
Hillside Farms’ Care Farming Services provides a compassionate and healing space for children facing the difficult challenges of trauma. Since 2012, it has been a beacon of hope to the region’s children from ages 6 to 14, especially those dealing with various forms of trauma, including the painful loss of family members or challenging circumstances within their homes.
Addressing the trauma, a recent Center for Disease Control report on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) is emphasized here. According to extensive research, damaging experiences may involve violence, abuse, or growing up in a household affected by mental health issues or substance dependencies. Trauma is not a fleeting affliction but leaves lasting effects on a child’s brain development and coping mechanisms.
However, recovery is indeed possible, and the Care Farming Services at Hillside Farms offer a structured yet compassionate route towards healing. This comprehensive, evidence-based program offers children the opportunity to interact with mental health professionals, trauma counselors, and occupational therapists. Children also engage in age-appropriate farm-based activities, creating a bond of shared experience and understanding with likewise affected peers. Moreover, each day includes grief education sessions and emotional support activities tailored to the children’s individual needs, while respecting their individual pace and comfort zones in group activities.
“The Earth and all its creatures are a gift and a responsibility to be cared for by us.” Dr. Douglas J. Ayers
