Our Story

Daring to Dream

The Farmer’s House is the combined dream of Peaches and David Cunningham for their son John David, and Suzanne and Alan Zimmerman for their daughter Julianna (Anna). The two families met at preschool for children with developmental disabilities when John David and Anna were 3 and 4 years old, today they are young adults. Like most parents who have children with a developmental disability, one of their biggest concerns was for their future.

Every parent hopes that the future includes a safe environment for their child’s individual needs and a fulfilling and valued lifestyle. In 2006 out of these hopes and dreams The Farmer’s House, Inc., a not for profit 501(c)(3), was born. The idea of a working farm where children, youth and young adults could live, work, play and grow took shape and the process of learning as much as possible about existing farm or ranch communities for individuals with developmental disabilities was undertaken.

Seeds of Change

In 2010, The Farmer’s House launched its first program, The Seeds of Change Garden. The initial participants in the garden program were Platte RIII High School’s special education classroom and Platte County Board of Services day rehabilitation program. At the end of the first season it was determined that the garden had benefited the students and adults who had participated by teaching them how to plan out a project, work together to prepare, plant and maintain it, and the reward of harvesting the produce. They took great ownership and pride in the garden and loved looking up recipes that used the things they had grown. The garden was a success and additional area schools have been participating every year since the program was initiated.

Farmer's House Market

From the success of The Seeds of Change Garden Program and with the help of staff who have a heart for the mission, tremendous volunteers and amazing community support; The Farmer’s House Market was born. The Market opened in April of 2012. The Market is located in the historic Vaughn’s Orchard retail space on highway 273 between Platte City and Weston, Missouri. The Farmer’s House Market sells locally grown and produced “farm to table” products such as vegetables, fruit, honey, cheese and farm and home related items. The Market and Farm have an indescribable “ware and welcoming vibe” and on special event or fall week-ends you will find incredible barbecue, hot apple fritters and other amazing delicacies in addition to live bluegrass on the porch, farm games and incredible photo opportunities in the flower cutting garden and around the Farm. But most importantly you will find a whole lot of friendly, relaxing fun.

Daring to Dream

Seeds of Change

Farmer's House Market

Let’s Stay Connected

Market & Catering

Farm Market & Gardens

Platte City Market

Marketplace

Support

Resources