After two and a half years of activities, the Social farm project has come to an end, marking a milestone for social agriculture in Sicily. The ConSenso social cooperative, leading the project, is organizing a seminar on December 6 at 5:00 PM at Sant’Angela Merici estate in contrada Roccella, Caltanissetta. The event will bring together participants, their families, local authorities, and project partners, including Amici del Cavallo 2, Progetto di Vita, and Lombardo Vini.
The role of social agriculture
Social agriculture is a groundbreaking approach that combines tradition and innovation in social policies. By integrating activities like animal care and farming, the project promoted well-being, particularly for vulnerable groups. Funded by the Sicilian Region under the PSR Sicilia 2014-2020 program, the initiative focused on social inclusion, environmental education, and economic sustainability in rural areas.
Activities and workshops
The project unfolded through various workshops, including:
- Animal-assisted therapy, such as equine and donkey therapy, in partnership with Amici del Cavallo 2.
- Craft workshops, like raku pottery creation.
- Environmental education and green space management at the Sant’Angela Merici estate.
- Nutritional education, supported by Lombardo farm.
Impact on the community
The initiative had a profound social impact, involving not only the day-care center users, diagnosed with autism and psycho-physical disabilities, but also their families and the local community. Additionally, students from ITIS Mottura in Caltanissetta actively participated, fostering an integration model centered on individuals.
A model for the future
“Social farm” has proven that agriculture can become a tool for creating educational opportunities, job pathways, and social well-being. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of its partners, the project offered innovative solutions combining economic development and solidarity.
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