What began as a spontaneous decision to raise a few chickens quickly blossomed into a life-changing mission for Cullman’s Judy Snead — a mission now known as Snead’s Farmhouse Sanctuary.
Five years ago, Snead’s husband’s job transfer brought the couple to Cullman County, and along with their new home came a chicken coop and a decision to fill it. Starting as someone with no experience with chickens, the learning curve was steep but incredibly life changing, according to Snead.
“I didn’t grow up with chickens. I barely connected the dots that eggs actually come from chickens. But something about that day made me say, ‘You know what? Let’s try it,” Snead laughed.
That simple decision to “try chickens” was the start of an unexpected, significant journey for her and the people who would one day visit her farm.
Snead’s Farmhouse is no longer just a hobby farm; it has evolved into a nonprofit sanctuary that welcomes children, families and individuals seeking connection, healing, peace and fun. The farm is home to a diverse selection of animals, each with its own unique personality. But there is more to the farmhouse than the beloved animals. Snead’s Farmhouse offers the spirit of a sanctuary, making visitors feel seen, accepted and loved for who they are.
“When people hear the word ‘sanctuary,’ they think of rescued animals — and yes, we have those, but here, sanctuary means more than that. It’s a safe haven for people, too. A place where there’s no judgment, no pressure, no need to be anything but yourself,” Snead explained.
Snead’s Farmhouse has evolved into a beautiful, accessible, thriving community, offering hands-on tours, school visits, special needs programming and even a mobile chick incubation experience that brings the miracle of life into classrooms.
“The very first time I watched a baby chick hatch out of its egg, I was in absolute awe. I knew right then that kids needed to see this. They need to witness the miracle of life,” Snead said.
Her dedication to education and inclusion is evident not only in the Farm’s programs, but also in the way every visitor is treated. Whether it’s a young child befriending a goat or a teen finding peace brushing a cow, the healing is real, Snead said. “It’s not therapy with titles or paperwork; it’s soul work. The animals don’t care about your past. They just show up, and that simple presence can change everything.”
But the path hasn’t been without challenges. The farm faced regulatory setbacks that temporarily shut down tours due to obscure USDA rules.
“I built a beautiful peacock enclosure — only to find out it wasn’t allowed to be visible to the public without a license,” Snead said. “I could’ve given up. But instead, I got creative. We hung curtains around the enclosure. It wasn’t ideal, but it kept us open.”
Despite all the challenges, she has leaned on the community and her unwavering faith, saying “This farm didn’t start because of me — it started because of God. Every single step I take, I take with my eyes on Him and my heart anchored in faith.”
Although the farm is not physically expanding — Snead balances its management alongside caring for her father, who is in hospice — its reach continues to grow. With over 100,000 followers on Facebook and thousands more on YouTube, Snead uses her platform to spread messages of kindness, encouragement and love. Her children’s books and school programs convey the same themes, sowing seeds of empathy and inclusion in young hearts.
Snead’s favorite animal is Bad, Bad Leroy Brown, a donkey who stands alone but always stands up for others. “Rain, sleet, snow or ice — you’ll find Leroy outside the barn, standing guard. While the others cozy up inside, he braves the storm to protect his herd. He reminds me that being different can be powerful… and sometimes, the ones who stand alone are the ones who hold everyone else together,” she said.
Each week, the farm hosts volunteers from the Margaret Jean Jones Center, creating space for individuals with disabilities to engage, work and find joy in the rhythm of farm life.
“They don’t just help around the farm — they bring heart, light and so much love,” Snead said. “Their presence reminds me that abilities aren’t defined by limitations — they’re defined by spirit, effort and the joy you bring to others.”
Looking ahead, her mission is clear: expand the mission, not the footprint. “I’m one person, I run this farm with my own two hands,” she said. “But I can reach more people through stories, videos and connections. That’s where I’m being called right now.”
The farm offers more than just animals. It imparts a feeling of belonging. Visitors leave feeling seen, heard and genuinely loved.
“I want people to feel unjudged,” Snead said. “Free to laugh, cry, breathe or just be. If you leave carrying even a little bit of that love with you, then I’ve done what I came here to do.”
Snead’s journey with Snead’s Farmhouse hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth every step, she said. “This isn’t just a job; It’s a calling, and I’m beyond grateful for the life I never dreamed I’d love this much.”
Snead’s Farmhouse is located at 820 County Road 1225 in Vinemont. Find it online at www.sneadsfarmhouse.com.
