Established in
Bradford Vermont
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Merry Meadow Farm (MMF) was first licensed by the State of Vermont in 1980. Formerly operated as a Bed & Breakfast, Betty Williams, a Social Worker by trade, recognized the need for a bridge between the custodial care of a hospital and the rigors of independent living. As a social worker in the community, she was disturbed by the endless flow of individuals in the community needing regular hospitalizations, not able to live independently. Betty slowly began matriculating individuals needing assistance with a mental illness into her home. Rather than guests at the inn, Betty began increasing the size of her family.
Although Betty continued to function as a social worker, her interest moved toward providing quality care in a home based setting in the community. As Betty continued to accept residents into the home, she pursued the State of Vermont for a license permitting her to become a Therapeutic Community Residence (TCR). Staff were hired to assist in the daily needs as Betty was inundated with referrals.
As the Main Farm House filled, Betty needed to expand in an effort to offer more people this opportunity. In 1985, Betty opened the Gray House. The Gray House offered the same care as the main house in a slightly smaller setting. All activities and opportunities were open to either house, interaction was frequent between individuals of both houses, continuing the family model.
In 1991 the Bradford house was opened. The Bradford House, licensed as a Residential Care Home, is fully handicap accessible and completely remodeled. The Residential Care home model focuses more on the needs and issues surrounding extended care.
In 1993 the Hanover House opened. Just off the campus of Dartmouth College, the Hanover House offers a different culture, increased vocational possibilities, public transportation and unlimited entertainment.
Merry Meadow Farm continues to hold on to what is left of the “Family model”. All houses interact frequently, staff often work at numerous houses, and residents have the option of moving from house to house when ready.
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