Winter Garden is offering up something that is a first anywhere in Florida. There is now a farm in the city that is providing an opportunity for disabled individuals that were denied the opportunity to enroll in college or seek employment.
This pilot program is a collaboration between Orange County Public Schools and the nonprofit Special Hearts Farm. Young adults ages 18-22 can use the farm as a classroom through the Exceptional Student Education Transition School.
Older students can participate in the farm’s Adult Training Program. As part of the program, they learn to take care of the farm’s animals, learn woodworking and create things like rustic signs and scented soap bars.
The things they make are then available for purchase at the Special Hearts Farm store. The plan is that by going through the program, these students learn enough to seek meaningful employment.
Individuals can get more involved with Special Hearts Farm by attending their fundraiser at Lake Ridge Winery on December 15 from 6-9:30 p.m. “Boots, Wine & Under the Stars” includes a cocktail party, dinner, dessert, open bar and live entertainment.
