A PLACE ТО HEAL

Andrea and Michael Haritos use their farm to help grieving people in their community and to educate consumers about food production

- Cassidy Walter

On the outskirts of Smyrna, Delaware, Andrea and Michael Haritos run an unassuming homestead. While an unlikely and unexpected endeavor for these career real estate agents, the couple has transformed seven acres into a refuge for the hurting, a classroom for the curious, and a shelter for all who wander. Huck and Buck Farm-Sanctuary is all about feeding people, whether it be their bellies, their minds, or their souls.

“It’s comical for him and me to do this,” Andrea says. “I’m supposed to be dressed in heels and makeup every day, not Crocs and sweatpants with dirt under my nails.” 

Today, Huck and Buck Farm-Sanctuary is home to dozens of chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys, along with a pair of potbelly pigs and the couple’s two dogs, King and Prince. They sell eggs, chicken meat, and cut flowers from their large garden, which also includes fruits and vegetables. They plan to add pigs and goats to the farm.   

Serving Self-Care

But food isn’t the only thing the couple wants to share with their community. 

When they first purchased the property in January 2020, the farm was more Michael’s passion project than Andrea’s. However, in taking care of the garden and animals, Andrea found something she didn’t expect. 

“The farm has become my therapy,” she says. “It’s where I really have peace.” 

In 2013, Andrea lost her son unexpectedly. Working on the farm helped her grieve. She wants to share that healing power with the community.