Below are our answers to questions frequently asked about autism. If you have a question that you would like to see answered here, please email the question to Marian Honeywell mhoneywell@bittersweetfarms.org.
The State of Ohio has capped the number of licensed beds that we can have at our main facility. This cap is throughout the state and not specific to Bittersweet. The cap has created a waiting list dating back to the early '80s for people waiting for residential services.
Bittersweet has subsequently been able to grow only in community based housing in our supported living program and serving those people fortunate enough to get the Ohio Individual Options Waiver.
Over the years, we have found that a farm setting offers rich, varied and abundant opportunities for self-paced, distraction-free activities that are perceived as immediately meaningful by our participants. They are able to see the process of their work and are able to enjoy the product of their labor. This concrete reinforcement is a positive affirmation of their dignity and worth. A more complete answer to this question is available elsewhere on this website.