Farmsteads New England

The vision for Farmsteads of New England began with founder Deborah DeScenza, who sought a meaningful future for her son Andrew, who has significant special needs. With a background in special education, Deborah realized the need for a farmstead that could serve multiple individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. In 2000, Farmsteads of New England was established as a nonprofit in New Hampshire, receiving tax-exempt status in 2001. The organization purchased Rosewald Farm in Hillsborough in 2003 and expanded to a second site in Epping in 2009. In 2017, they acquired Redberry Farm in Epping to further their day services program.

Farmsteads of New England operates on the belief that every individual has the right to be valued for their abilities and deserves a fulfilling life within a community. The farm emphasizes meaningful work, connection with nature, and personalized care delivered by compassionate and well-trained staff. Transparency, open communication, and environmental responsibility are core to their philosophy.

The Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program at Farmsteads of New England allows members to invest in the farm's operations by purchasing a share in the spring. In return, members receive a 20-week subscription to fresh, locally grown produce and have the opportunity to engage with the farm community, meet the farmers, and visit the animals in the petting farm. The farm also values respect, integrity, responsible stewardship, diversity, equity, inclusion, transparency, compassion, and excellence in all their practices.