The Haven at Skanda

The Haven at Skanda is a farm animal sanctuary in Cazenovia that supports love, hope, and possibilities for rescued farm animals and our community's most vulnerable children. Skanda takes in rescued farm animals from all over the country and provides them with a safe, nurturing environment to recover from abuse and neglect and emerge as who they really are, free from stress and fear.

 

We have seen that the animals beautifully leave trauma in the past, and are able to live softly, lovingly in the present moment, teaching us so much about healing and love. 

 

Because experiences with the animals can be so life-changing, Skanda provides a wealth of programs for people of all ages and abilities to spend time with the animals and discover new possibilities. 

 

Skanda especially focuses on programs for children, and provides year-round programs supporting all children, and especially children with their own experiences of abuse, neglect, or profound loss. 

 

The Haven at Skanda is a safe place for animals and people to be exactly who they are, and to celebrate themselves and appreciate the strength and vibrancy that comes from diversity. The animals of Skanda love each other’s uniqueness and embrace their differences without fear. They show us the incredible love and joy that is possible when we appreciate diversity. 

Skanda’s programs for the public include year-round programs for children ages 6-16, including supportive programs for children with trauma,  summer camp, an LGBTQ youth peer support program, a girls’ leadership program and a boy’s support group; a robust volunteer program for individuals, families, groups, and teams; educational programs for the general public throughout the year; the Horses for the Holidays equine outreach and prevention program (like Toys for Tots for horses in need); contemplative arts including meditation, yoga, qi gong; and personal, silent, and create retreats in Skanda’s barn apartment. 

 

Skanda is committed to responding to community needs. During COVID-related school closures, Skanda quickly acquired temporary permission from the State of New York to provide emergency child care at the farm to children of essential workers and children whom the county identified as being at high risk for abuse or neglect during prolonged quarantine at home.