Folha Verde began in early autumn 2018 with 19 children, meeting two days a week. Today, we’ve grown into a thriving project open four days a week, from Monday to Thursday.
The idea for Folha Verde first took root during a series of gatherings in the spring and summer of 2017. By early autumn that year, the project came to life in a yurt and a wooden roundhouse on land generously offered by participating families, a small yet inspiring beginning for what was soon to become Folha Verde as we know it today.
In mid-October of 2017, devastating forest fires swept through our region of Portugal. Many of the families connected to Folha Verde lost their homes, their belongings, and the very land where our project had taken root was lost. Despite these hardships, the spirit of our community remained unbroken. While many needed time to rebuild their lives, the vision of Folha Verde endured.
Months later, as hope and determination returned, so too did the energy to revive our project. With the beautiful Lagar building confirmed as our new home, Folha Verde was ready to flourish once more.
Since then, we’ve adapted the Lagar and its grounds into a dynamic, nurturing, and safe space nestled within the stunning valley landscape, with the river flowing right at our doorstep. Over the years, we’ve continued to evolve with the needs of our community, welcoming families from near and far, and growing together in spirit and purpose.
