Thanksgiving Farm at the Center for Discovery

About Thanksgiving Farm at the Center for Discovery

Situated 80 miles north-west of New York City, Thanksgiving Farm at the Center for Discovery is a not-for-profit farm in the Catskill Mountains of Sullivan County. Founded in 1948, the Center provides health, educational and residential services for approximately 500 children and adults (ages 5 to 78) with severe disabilities and medical frailties, including a growing number of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.Thanksgiving Farm is designed to provide both quality food for the Center and meaningful work for the residents who live there. The farm encompasses over 150 certified organic acres across three linked sites at Stonewall Preserve, Applebee Farm, and the Main Campus (or home farm).The Center’s farmers employ organic and biodynamic (it is Demeter certified as well) methods and practices that are thoughtfully designed to promote the long-term health and sustainability of the land, water and food systems that extend well beyond the farm’s fences. The Center grows roughly 60 different types of vegetables, flowers, and herbs and is home to several species of livestock including beef cattle, laying hens, pigs, and sheep. The Center has always been committed to raising farm animals using highwelfare practices and they are proud theirlaying hens, sheep, cattle, and pigs are now AWA-certified. The farm is a part of the Department of Nourishment Arts (DNA) which is a unique program combining the farm, culinary arts and nutrition under one roof for a cohesive approach to the guiding principle of food is medicine. According to the Center’s website regarding DNA, “Food is where therapy begins at the Center. It is quality care from the inside out. We are committed to growing quality food, cooking it in a healthful way, and providing the individuals we serve with delicious, highly nutritious food to support health and quality of life.” As well as providing food for residents, Thanksgiving Farm supports a 300-member CSA , supplying staff and families, as well as wider community members. For more information about Thanksgiving Farm at the Center for Discovery, visit http://www.thecenterfordiscovery.org or call (845) 794-1400.