Located just ten minutes from Port Alberni, Shelter Farm is a social enterprise that is operated by PASS. In addition to growing fresh vegetables, Shelter Farm provides a nurturing environment for individuals undergoing long-term recovery. Our Therapeutic Recovery Community (TRC) provides a safe and supportive home for up to six females and offers a two-year stay (or more), allowing for a comprehensive and extended treatment option. Pets are also welcome.
Growing food, opportunity & hope
This is not a traditional rehab centre. The TRC at Shelter Farm emphasizes empowerment, self-sufficiency and recovery through horticulture. Our residents are invited to participate in a variety of activities around the farm, which can offer several benefits including:
- Therapeutic and stress-reducing effects:
Engaging in farming activities, such as planting, nurturing, and harvesting can reduce stress, anxiety and depression. The act of caring for plants and witnessing their growth can also help create a sense of accomplishment, purpose and well-being. - Physical rehabilitation and sensory stimulation:
Engaging in farming tasks, such as digging, planting, and weeding, can improve motor skills, strength and coordination. Touching and smelling different plants can also provide sensory stimulation, benefiting those with sensory processing difficulties. - Social interaction and community building:
Working together on a farm fosters a sense of community and belonging, allowing individuals to connect with others who may be experiencing similar challenges. These social interactions can also improve communication skills and interpersonal relationships. - Cognitive and emotional development:
Residents can improve their cognitive abilities through tasks like garden design, crop selection and pest management. Moreover, witnessing the growth and transformation of plants can instill a sense of hope and optimism, positively impacting emotional development. - Increased self-esteem and confidence:
As residents see the fruits of their labour and the positive impact they are having at Shelter Farm, they gain a sense of accomplishment and pride. This increased self-worth can extend to other aspects of their lives, encouraging personal growth and motivation for continued progress in their therapeutic journey.
In addition to providing therapeutic benefits, our TRC at Shelter Farm also offers peer support groups, counselling and a variety of training programs, giving residents all of the necessary tools to help them transition to healthy, independent living.
For more information, including questions related to admission, please contact WesHewitt@PortAlberniShelter.com
