From autism advocacy to dementia care: How ELIJA Farm in Huntington is growing a more inclusive future
The fresh air, gentle tasks, and social interaction offer therapeutic benefits, easing anxiety and potentially helping to slow cognitive decline.
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If you're a caregiver looking for a hands on opportunity to learn about the therapeutic benefits of nature, there's a four-week course at ELIJA farm organized by the Willing Hearts, Helpful Hands, Parker Jewish Institute every Wednesday starting April 30. It's free, but space is limited. A person receiving care is also invited to join caretakers. Join here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/cu/P9XvhjW/ELIJAFarm
At ELIJA Farm in South Huntington, NY, rows of fresh crops aren’t the only things thriving. This nonprofit farm offers delicious produce and baked goods, and is is cultivating compassion, connection, and community through their many programs. We spent the day with, Mirella, who is the mother of the farm's founder Debora.
Mirella, lives with dementia, and a few days a week, she spends the day at the farm for horticulture therapy with her daughter Debora and grandson Jason. Though dementia has clouded her memory, her spirit is bright.
Debora Thivierge, a special education expert and founder of ELIJA Farm, originally opened the farm to create employment and education opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum—like her son Jason. The farm’s programs promote independence and confidence through hands-on learning and community involvement.
Now, Debora is expanding that mission. Drawing from her personal experience as a caretaker for people with both autism and dementia, she’s inviting residents with dementia from the Bristol in Jericho to spend time on the farm a few times a month. The fresh air, gentle tasks, and social interaction offer therapeutic benefits, easing anxiety and potentially helping to slow cognitive decline.
"These are tasks that mirror those we use with our adults with autism," Debora says.
ELIJA Farm stands out as a nonprofit committed to sustainable agriculture and inclusive education. Through its Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program and educational initiatives, it provides dynamic learning opportunities for neurodiverse individuals and now, for those with memory-related conditions too.
To learn more about ELIJA Farm’s mission and programs or enjoy some of the tasty treats grown and baked fresh on the farm, visit elijafarm.org.
