Selah Carefarm Highlighted in Iowa Public Radio Feature on Care Farms

In an insightful piece by Iowa Public Radio, Selah Carefarm was showcased as a pioneering example of how farm-based activities can support mental wellness. The article delves into the concept of care farms—agricultural spaces that offer therapeutic experiences for individuals facing physical or mental health challenges—and examines why such initiatives are still emerging in the United States.

🎧 Listen to the full segment on Iowa Public Radio →

Summary of the Feature

Authored by Elizabeth Gabriel, the article introduces readers to the transformative work at Selah Carefarm, a sanctuary in Arizona founded by Dr. Joanne Cacciatore. The piece shares the story of the Zilberstein family, who turned to Selah Carefarm after the tragic loss of their youngest son, Gidi. Traditional therapy methods did not resonate with them, leading them to seek alternative forms of healing.

At Selah, the Zilbersteins found solace in engaging with rescued animals and participating in farm activities. The farm’s approach allows individuals to process grief at their own pace, offering a non-judgmental space where both humans and animals, many of whom have experienced trauma themselves, can heal together.

The article highlights the broader concept of care farms, which are prevalent in Europe but less common in the U.S. It discusses the potential benefits of integrating agricultural activities with mental health support and explores the challenges and opportunities for expanding care farms across the country.

Why This Matters

Being featured by Iowa Public Radio, a respected voice in public media, underscores Selah Carefarm’s role as a leader in innovative grief support and animal-assisted therapy. The coverage brings national attention to the effectiveness of care farms in addressing mental health challenges and emphasizes the need for more such sanctuaries in the U.S.

This recognition not only validates Selah’s mission but also contributes to a broader conversation about alternative healing modalities and the importance of integrating nature-based therapies into mental health care.

“At the care farm, I’m able to just be with my thoughts, walk around, pet animals, and help out. It’s a much better way of processing things for me.”
— Oren Zilberstein