Fiddlehead Care Farm

Sharing Recipient Stories

2024 Dufferin County Community Grant Recipient
$4,850

Sharing our story

The Co-Care Farmers (CCF) program at Fiddlehead Care Farm (FCF) is an evidence-based, goal-oriented initiative designed to support vulnerable youth with developmental, physical, and mental health challenges, including Autism, in Dufferin County. In 2024, over 100 participants, ages 5-30, engaged in the program to learn farm, life, and vocational skills through animal care, gardening, and care farming practices. The program included two seasonal CCF groups of 10 participants and a summer day camp in partnership with UGDSB, providing mental health support to over 80 participants.

The funding provided by the Dufferin Community Grant supported program staffing and enabled the implementation of flexible accommodations for participants. This included feasible registration processes and accessible tools, which helped reduce barriers to participation and empowered individuals with diverse needs to engage more fully in society. Working on the farm helped participants develop a sense of purpose, improve daily routines, and return to school more focused. While working alongside staff farmers fostered a sense of equality and community.

Caregivers reported improvements in participants’ life skills, such as social skills, independence, leadership, communication, and teamwork. One family shared about their son’s growth, “He has really grown in his confidence and seems more comfortable talking to people.” The program also facilitated new friendships and connections to the land.

Another highlight of 2024 was CCF’s expansion into the community, where participants practiced customer service skills by selling produce at local farmers’ markets. We are already looking forward to the next growing season!

Stephanie Deaken, Executive Director
Fiddlehead Care Farm
fiddleheadcarefarm@gmail.com
647-624-8421
www.fiddleheadcarefarm.com