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OUR FAVOURITE STORIES OF '23: #7 A safe, supportive farm experience

EloraFergusToday is counting down its favourite stories of the year
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Bart and Heather Rosegaar.

Rosenglitter Care Farm near Arthur is a special place.

An alternative day centre for adults with special needs run by Bart and Heather Rosegaar, it allows for a safe and supportive farm experience for those that might find that difficult, if not impossible, to experience.

The farm offers skill-building workshops involving animals, woodworking and gardening activities to create a safe space for special needs adults in Wellington County, all inspired by the father of Bart, who brought a popular idea from his homeland of Holland to the area. 

"It takes a little bit of extra time and effort to train (special needs folk) but we have the love and time to train them to do these things and once we do, they're very good at it," said Heather. "So hopefully not only do we give them potential employment but also the self-worth of doing the fun farm things in a safe environment." 

Opening its doors to the public in 2020.

Working closely with Live & Learn in Guelph and  B.O.S.S Orangeville, the farm is also part of the passport program, a reimbursement program that helps adults with developmental disabilities in Ontario access services and support. 

"The biggest thing is we just want people to visit and to show them what we're doing," said Heather. "I know right now everything is hard...life is expensive and it's hard to even think about taking care of anyone else outside your home but if we start working together, then the world will be a better place." 

READ THE FULL STORY HERE