Homefields Care Farm

In 1991, a group of parents and professionals in Lancaster County came together to address the lack of programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They envisioned a flexible environment where adults with special needs, families, and the community could partner to create new opportunities. In 1992, five families pooled their finances to purchase an eight-acre horse-boarding farm in Millersville, PA, transforming it into a nurturing, self-sufficient community. Over the years, the farm expanded to 19 acres and became known for its organic produce and inclusive community. Today, six adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities call it home, supported by professional staff and a dedicated board of directors.

The farm employs organic farming methods, harvesting produce at the peak of nutrition and taste. They use companion plants and diatomaceous earth for insect control, plant cover crops for fertilization, and manage water runoff with deep-rooted plants. The farm also features a pick-your-own field with cutting flowers, herbs, hot peppers, and unusual edibles. They are committed to creating a nurturing environment that respects the land and supports a diverse community.

Homefields Care Farm is the oldest continually operating CSA farm in Lancaster County. It offers over 45 different vegetables and fruits, and serves as a hub for other local farms, providing shareholders and non-members with access to fruit, eggs, meat, mushrooms, cheese, and more. The farm also hosts annual fundraisers, outdoor dining events, and educational programs, making it a vibrant community center. The farm's mission is to nurture meaningful experiences that connect people of all abilities to each other and to the land, emphasizing options, respect, integrity, and adaptability.