The involvement of children and youth from vulnerable groups in agriculture and food production is important both for their socialization, well-being, self-realization and health, as well as for the economy and security of the region.
Since 2016, The Way Home Foundation has been implementing an innovative programme in the Odessa region, aimed at social adaptation and vocational guidance, and promoting self-sufficiency of youth in the agricultural sector.
It is based on farming and entrepreneurial training for children, adolescents and youth from vulnerable families, with special needs and for orphans. All the necessary conditions for living, learning, socializing and practical training has been created at the Eco-farm "Liebental", where vegetables, herbs, flowers and fruits are grown all year round, thereby supporting the work of 7 social centers of the Foundation.
The foundation has developed methods of operation to increase the potential of the participants and of the target group, and improved the material and technical base.
During the project time, more than 250 adolescents and young people who had difficulties with social adaptation improved their life situation and received useful practical skills. Majority of them have been employed in different enterprises.
In 2021, 60 young people from14 to 25 years old will receive support in obtaining vocational education, employment and legal income through practical courses on local farms, studying innovative technologies and agribusiness practices under the guidance of mentors. After the courses, they will be able to start their own business and sustain themselves. The project is financially supported by Ursula Zindel-Hilti Foundation.
Due to the outbreak of war, we have been supporting our long-standing project partner with financial resources for the purchase of urgently needed relief supplies (e.g. generators) since March 2022.
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Vera, Sascha and Andrei talking about their life in Liebenthal.