Animals

Animals

Animals are an important part of life here at the farm.

They bring movement, personality, and daily rhythm to our work - and they help connect people to agriculture in a tangible, hands-on way.

Right now, our farm is home to a growing flock of laying hens and ducks. Each day begins with feeding, fresh water, egg collection, and general care. It’s steady, behind-the-scenes work that keeps the farm running smoothly.

Chickens & Ducks

Chickens

Our hens provide fresh eggs while teaching responsibility, routine, and stewardship. Chickens are naturally curious and highly social, and over time you start to notice their distinct personalities and pecking-order politics.

Ducks

Our ducks add a little extra energy to chore time. They are enthusiastic foragers, reliable layers, and never shy about making their presence known. Watching them move as a group across the yard is part of the daily charm of farm life.

Help care for the animals who call this farm home

Why Animals Matter

Beyond egg production, the animals play an important role in the farm ecosystem. They:

  • Contribute to soil health and garden systems

  • Help manage insects naturally

  • Create hands-on learning opportunities

  • Encourage patience, responsibility, and compassion

  • Offer moments of calm and connection

Caring for animals requires ongoing resources - feed, bedding, fencing, shelter maintenance, and care. It’s a commitment we take seriously.

Support the Animals

If you’d like to help care for the animals who call this farm home, we welcome your support. Contributions directly assist with feed, habitat improvements, seasonal care, and future expansion of our animal program.

As the farm continues to grow, so will our animal community. We look forward to thoughtfully expanding in the seasons ahead.

  • "First time coming and it was so nice!!! There was also live music too with tons of seating. I would come again next year to pick more flowers!"

    —Aleysha Dominguez

  • "Homesteads for Hope is a great organization. The farm sells locally grown food."

    —David Larter

  • "Homesteads for Hope had me from my first visit! There is so much to be part of and to take part in yet the pace is casual and non-pressured. Truly a place for everyone, Homesteads for Hope is a little slice of heaven right around the corner. Visit once ...you'll be back!"

    —Jeannine DeRoo

  • "The property is beautiful and the staff are the best! I love visiting the cafe’ as well. There are always special treats for me to purchase, including beautiful fresh picked flowers. The Thursday night events are a great place for the whole family to relax and enjoy the property."

    —Jane Moore

  • "Nice stop while biking the Erie Canal Trail with food and music for good causes."

    —Scot Egg

  • "Homesteads for Hope is that special vibe and the summer event spot to hang. IYKYK. Check out the website."em

    —Rhonda SanFilipo

  • "Always a joy to visit, speak with the staff, and even volunteer in the fields. You can't help but walk away with a smile on your face."

    —James Shaw

  • "Adorable, peaceful place for a county style summer evening, complete with a great duo, singing live with a guitar! Name families were enjoying a piece of normal. Very nice food truck, ice creams, and benches next to canal - can't be better!"

    —Mohri Hime

  • "What a great place to go for fresh garden food. A place where the workers are very friendly , and plant and grow the fresh produce themselves . A quiet , nice place in the back with a pond and picnic tables around. Events for people to choose from to attend. Love it there."

    —Cheryl Arnold

  • "Wonderful farming community that assists disabled/challenged adults learn job skills. Has a little store that sells the vegetables they farm and crafts created by the students. A great organization to put your support behind."

    —Linda Short

  • "A beautiful spot adding beauty to the world"

    —Kevin Markman

  • "What an amazing place for people of all abilities! It is so heartwarming to see people thrive in such an welcoming learning environment."

    —Jacqueline Yates

  • "A terrific organization with a very clear mission - and passionate, dedicated staff who are working tirelessly to develop programs and services that center on fostering independence, specialized skills development, and socialization opportunities for folks with developmental disabilities. Beyond this essential aim, there are opportunities abound to explore a working farm, with recreational and other special events throughout the year. As a musical performer for their Harvest BBQs and Fundraising Gala, I have enjoyed not only the beauty of this location, but surely the spirit and sense of community evident with those participating in the activities. Kudos to Jenny and the team at H4H!"

    —Adam Whiting