Oasis TLC is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving land and historic homes in our area to transform into small, sustainable organic farms for adults with autism to live and work on.
We acquired our first farm in Middletown in 2011. We were able to preserve 26 acres of woodlands, major streams and a historic home.
The acquisition was an example of the success that can be achieved when groups work together. Oasis partnered with Middletown Township, the Monmouth Conservation Foundation, NY/NJ Baykeeper and State Green Acres to purchase the property. The home and seven acres were subdivided for Oasis, and the remaining 19 acres are now public property.
Oasis TLC is running a transitional program for young adults with autism at this site. We have transformed the estate into a working farm that includes 12 students and several employees. The program has both a residential and day program for young adults age 18-27 on the autism spectrum. This is an area of great need.
The program helps our students, and our students are helping the community by being a living example of a beautiful, sustainable life. They are also producing excess organic produce and other products for our local community. This brings me to the issue at hand. We are almost filled to capacity and need another place. The funding stream that helped us purchase the Oasis TRAIL Center is not there. We need voters to take action in November and vote “yes” on public question No. 2, which would dedicate much-needed funds to enable projects like Oasis Farms to multiply.
Voting yes will replenish Green Acres, Blue Acres, farmland and historic-preservation monies without raising taxes. This will help fund projects like ours that not only create jobs and teach job skills, but also create a real positive sense of community.
Let’s protect our environment and the people in it. Preserving land and waterways and at the same time providing a service to people who need our help is what builds character in a community.
Please vote “yes” on public question No. 2 on the November ballot. Our work depends on it. Thank you. Mai Cleary President Oasis TLC Middletown