β€œIf you are quiet, the flowers will tell you what you need to hear,” says Daisy.Β β€œThe flowers told me I was beautiful, and that I was good at things. The flowers told me that I could be gentle, and it was just okay to be.”

Soon after arriving at the shelter, survivors are introduced to nature-based healing opportunities on the farm. For some, this could be walks on the farm or eating more vegetables. Other survivors choose to participate in a six-week training program. Β 

Farm advocates meet with interested survivors to develop individualized program plans that responds to their physical limitations, healing goals, and personal interests.Β Β 

β€œI knew it was going to be interesting the first day on the farm,” writes a participant. β€œIt was hot and humid and there were bugs, but that’s nature. That’s also what really helped me center myself.”  

BENEFITS OF NATUREΒ Β 

Survivors participate in 10 hours of weekly training and activities on the farm in exchange for a stipend. One hour each week is reserved for reflection on the experience.Β Β 

Early spring activities focus on planning and seeding the flowers. As temperatures warm, survivors tend to watering, weeding, and harvesting the beautiful blooms.Β Β 

While survivor safety improves and planning for the transition away from shelter begins, farm advocates provide references during the search for employment.Β Β 

MISSION SUPPORTΒ Β 

Shares of the harvest are offered to the public through a community-supported agriculture (CSA) model. Individuals, families, and companies register to receive regular distributions of flowers from the farm during the summer season.

β€œI absolutely loved the flower CSA,” says previous member Julie Thomas. β€œI looked forward to my pickup every week and plan to join again this year.”      

Another supporter writes, β€œThe flowers were absolutely beautiful. My heart went out to all those who touched them.” Β 

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