A new one-time grant from Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government’s Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention (OHPI) will support nature-based healing and stability after surviving abuse.

Survivors living at the shelter experience the benefits of nature in many ways—from farm walks to nutritious meals. Adult survivors may choose to participate in a focused six-week project that provides a stipend for their contributions to the farm’s day-to-day operations.

“The stipend was amazing for me,” shares Eboni, a past stipend project participant. “I was able to save $200, get clothes for my son and me, fix my car, and even buy a washer and dryer for our new apartment.”

Funding from OHPI will provide a dollar-for-dollar match on the value of stipends earned by survivors. Matching funds can be applied to self-identified barriers to economic stability. Examples include expenses like car repairs, rental fees, job uniforms, medical care, and savings accounts.

“Nearly every person we serve has also suffered financial abuse,” shares Diane Fleet, associate director. “Survivors often face a long list of expenses that can delay and, too often, hinder progress made toward economic stability. Removing just a few of those barriers can make all the difference.”

“For future participants receiving more, it’ll just double their chances for success,” adds Eboni.

You can support survivors participating in the farm stipend program by attending a U-Pick Day on the farm in August or September! Click here to reserve your bucket for some flower picking fun.