Homesteads for Hope is a 501c3 non-profit Community Farm and Future Housing Village nestled on 55 acres along the wide waters of Historic Erie Canal in Rochester, NY. Founded by a Mother and Daughter team with a mission to support other families raising autism, our organization has truly evolved into a nurturing community where people of all abilities thrive, finding purpose and belonging in nature's classroom. We are committed to redefining the boundaries of inclusion, promoting a society where differences are celebrated and where each person is recognized for the valuable role, they play at the Community Farm.
Growing Purpose & Cultivating Inclusion in Nature’s Classroom
Everyone is welcome at the Farm.
Experience the heart of our farm as students, members, and volunteers join hands to cultivate skills, build lifelong bonds, and nurture our community. From sowing seeds in the greenhouse to tending our lush gardens and fields, each day is filled with purposeful activities like harvesting vegetables, tending to our chickens, crafting flower bouquets, and culinary adventures in the Community Center. Embrace the inclusive spirit of our farm and witness our mission in action by visiting the Farm Store & Café and joining us at one of our vibrant events.
Where Every Heart Finds a Home…
Joining the Homesteads Membership community is your gateway to a deeper connection with our farm and its promising future. We offer a three-tier membership that grants you access to the vibrant daily life of the farm and its incredible potential. No matter which membership tier you choose, you'll enjoy: 7-day access to the farm for daily recreation, priority volunteer opportunities, weekly gatherings every Thursday, facilitated clubs for kids and young adults, invitations to exclusive member-only events, and access to free or discounted community events, rentals, and classes.
Join the Homesteads Membership & Farm Family Today
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![Membership Rochester NY]()
$150 / Year
Includes daily social recreation at the farm, free or discounted clubs, classes and events. All members have weekly gatherings on Thursdays!
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![Membership Rochester NY]()
$350 / Year
Includes ALL Social Perks + Exclusive Community Co-Op Garden with Hands on Activities with U-Pick of Vegetables, Fruit, Herbs & Flowers.
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![CSA Membership Rochester NY]()
$350 - $650 / Year
Includes ALL Social Perks + 20 week CSA Food Share picked-up weekly or bi-weekly from June to October.
Many Ways to Get Involved!
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![Flower Farmer with a person with disabilities learning in a flower field.]()
Ready! Set! Programs
Embark on a journey of growth with us! Our inclusive class options, available throughout the week, invite you to immerse yourself in the Community Farm Experience—where you’ll nurture your purpose in nature’s classroom.
*Supported by Self Direction.
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![Many people seated at picnic tables and camp chair watching live music behind the red barn on a Thursday night at the farm.]()
Thursdays at the Farm
Every Thursday, from June through November, our farm becomes a vibrant hub of organic gatherings. Open to all, these events are an opportunity to experience our mission in action, inviting you to enjoy live music, food, and new friendships, all set against the backdrop of the Historic Erie Canal.
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![A Homesteads for Hope tote bag surrounded by various vegetables and flowers on a wooden surface showing the contents of our Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Food Share]()
CSA Food Share
Our Premier Membership offers 20 weeks of organically grown vegetables, herbs & flowers. By joining, you become a pillar of support for our Mission-Based Programs, championing equal employment opportunities for individuals of all abilities. Together, we're not just growing food; we're cultivating a world where everyone has the chance to thrive.
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![Girl blowing bubbles surrounded by other kids playing cornhole along the canal during a Field Trip.]()
Farm FUN Fridays
Fridays from May to November at our farm are all about FUN for everyone! No matter your age or ability, you're invited to dive into the full experience our farm has to offer. Come join us and create lasting memories in a place where every visit is an adventure and every moment becomes a core memory.
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![Large group of corporate volunteers stading and sitting in front of the community center after having volunteered landscaping around house]()
Corporate Volunteering
Join us on Mondays & Wednesdays for an opportunity to learn, grow, and experience true inclusion. To stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our dedicated growers. They're not just showing you the ropes; they're sharing their passion and the real work that goes into nurturing our farm.
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Visit the Farm
We're proud to be an inclusive and welcoming spot for all, open to the public. Whether you're popping into our Farm Store, grabbing a bite at the Café, or joining one of our Events, there's always something to see and do. So, why not swing by? Witness our mission in action and feel right at home with us.
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![12 people kneeling and standing around a Kubota utility vehicle in a farm field holding a big check from Kubota and Celebrating the donation.]()
Donate
As a heart-driven, private 501(c)(3) nonprofit, our lifeline is the generous support from people like you. With every donation, grant, and visit to our farm, you help us keep our doors open wide to over 600 families. Your support means everything to us—it's the reason we can continue to serve, grow, and thrive together.
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![dozens of people sitting at picnic tables along the canal enjoying a community event. Live Music and Inclusive Community programming.]()
Community Events
As a public venue, we host a variety of Community Events featuring live music, food trucks, and more! There's something for everyone, so be sure to check out our event calendar for upcoming activities and entertainment.
Thursdays at the Farm
Join us every Thursday, June through November from 5pm to 8 pm for unforgettable gatherings at the farm. Experience the warmth of the community, accompanied by live music, canal-side seating, breathtaking sunset views, and an abundance of games and fun! Indulge in delicious fare at Homesteads' very own Harvest Pizza & Grill, or explore the offerings at our Farm Store.
Bring your lawn chair, gather your family, and get ready to make new friends amidst the charming ambiance of Homesteads for Hope Community Farm. See you there!
Blue Jean Ball Event
Join us for the highlight of our year, the Blue Jean Ball, on Friday, September 27, 2024! Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with fun, excitement, and community spirit as we come together to support our mission and vision. Last year, we raised over $215,000, and this year promises to be even bigger and better! Stay tuned for ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities – coming soon! Don't miss out on the chance to be part of something truly special.
Monthly Open House
Join us for Homesteads for Hope's Monthly Open House series! Families, individuals, and agency professionals, including self-directed brokers, can come together to explore our membership and program services. Held on the first Tuesday of every month, our Open House series provides a welcoming environment for networking and connection. The agenda is as follows:
2 pm - 3 pm, Agency Professionals & Brokers may attend a brief overview of services and opportunities at H4H, light refreshments provided.
4 pm - 6 pm, Individuals, Families + Professionals are welcome to meet and mingle directly with our team and learn more about our inclusive programs and opportunities for involvement on our farm. Light refreshments are provided.
