Posy Ferme Florale grows jobs for adults with intellectual disabilities

Rows of flowers are blooming at Posy Ferme Florale in Verdun, tended by adults with intellectual disabilities who are learning employment skills and finding community in the process.

Founder Lucie Wade created the urban cut-flower and green care farm to provide what the school system doesn't: "skill and vocational training and employment and most importantly a sense of belonging and community to adults with intellectual disabilities who have aged out of the school system."

Wade's inspiration came from her older brother, who has an intellectual disability. "I have always seen him exist in the world and see how beautiful his interactions with people could be and also how heartbreaking his experience could be when people don't meet him with the same grace and openness that he always brings to the conversation," she said.

The operation launched as a pilot project at the family home before Wade rented space at NGO Grand Potager and launched the Fleurish program last year. Workers develop independence and self-sufficiency while working outdoors with their hands. Elana Warshawsky, an occupational therapy student working at the farm, noted the value of hands-on work in a supportive environment.

Posy employs adults with intellectual disabilities in a setting tailored to their needs, proving that meaningful work and community are possible when opportunity meets intention.