Q:

Where are you located?

A:

Farmsteads of New England, Inc. is located at Rosewald Farm, 213 Center Road, in Hillsborough, New Hampshire, approximately 45 minutes northwest of Manchester, NH, 1 1/2 hours north of Boston, Massachusetts, or 1 1/2 hours west of Portland, Maine

Q:

I thought today’s philosophy was to mainstream people with developmental disabilities into their community. Does your farm keep them isolated?

A:

The answer to this question starts back with our philosophy. First, we believe in self-determination. This means that we believe that each individual should be able to choose where (s)he lives, works, and plays. While everyone has the right to be fully included in society, there are some people who prefer to have some time away from the stresses of mainstream life. This includes many people who have autism or sensory integration difficulties who are overwhelmed by the fast pace and crowded conditions of an urban or well-populated environment and prefer a quieter, less hurried life.

Additionally, there are some people who have not been able to successfully participate in competitive employment situations, but who would still like to be able to do meaningful work, to be able to feel proud of their accomplishments at the end of the day. We provide the opportunity for both groups of people to do meaningful and satisfying work in an atmosphere that is less stressed because production rate doesn't matter. FNE's Rosewald Farm is simply another option available to people.

Finally, the direct answer to the question is that while we provide the opportunity for people to isolate themselves a bit from society, we also provide numerous opportunities to be included in the community. Rosewald Farm has historically been an integral part of the Hillsborough community; we are continuing the tradition of farming on this property, and by operating a farmstand and petting farm, we encourage the community to interact with us. Our farmers also go into town to run errands, go to the movies, go swimming, and go to the library. Those who live on the farmstead may join local churches if they like and become just as involved in the community as they desire.

Q:

Why is a farm a good setting for these people?

A:

A farm provides vocational activities, like working with animals, growing plants, baking, and selling, that are meaningful and satisfying because the results of their work are readily evident (i.e. growing plants in a garden can be eaten). The farmstead is a less stressful employment situation for some because it allows everyone to work at his or her own pace away from a high level of noise and work demands.

Q:

Do all farmers have to live on the farm?

A:

No, we provide both a residential program and a day program for those close enough to “commute” to the farm.

Q:

Do the farmers stay on the farm all the time?

A:

No, there are plenty of opportunities to interact with the community. Work related trips include trips to the hardware store, grocery store, and recycling center. Recreational activities include movies, hikes through Fox State Forest, the library, and bowling. There are also weekly swimming trips (to either local beaches or swimming pools) with plenty of encouragement for swimming laps and being active.

Q:

How can I help?

A:

If you are interested in volunteering or are interested in finding out about employment opportunities, please send an email inquiry detailing your background and interests.

Q:

How can I make a donation?

A:

This site is currently not set up to accept credit cards donations, but you can send donations to the address below: We are a 501(c)3 tax-exempt corporation; thus, all donations are tax deductible. If you have any questions, please contact us by phone or email.