MONTGOMERY CO., MD — In late 2025, Abby Johnson, a native of Montgomery County, established the HenPals Network with a mission: to provide retiring hens with a second chance at life.
This organization advocates for a departure from conventional depopulation methods commonly employed by farmers. Instead, farmers can choose to sell or donate their chickens to the nonprofit. Notably, laying hens are often culled at just 18 months old on large farms.
HenPals Network draws inspiration from the British Hen Welfare Trust, a charity based in the UK that has successfully rehomed over a million hens since its inception in 2005. Johnson began volunteering with this organization during her time abroad, starting in 2023.
Upon returning to Montgomery County in 2025, Johnson was determined to continue this vital work. Today, HenPals Network proudly stands as the first international affiliate of the BHWT.
“We’re starting small, but we aim to establish a new pathway for end-of-cycle laying hens, allowing them a brighter future compared to traditional depopulation methods,” Johnson shared with Patch.
“This initiative not only provides farmers with an additional revenue stream but also significantly benefits the hens. Many adopters are pleasantly surprised by the joy and personality these hens bring to their backyards,” she added.
Since its inception, HenPals Network has successfully rehomed 224 hens, with 170 finding loving homes during its inaugural rehoming event on March 28 at the Cole Farm in Boyds, owned by Johnson’s family.
HenPals collaborates with a farmer from the Eastern Shore, typically rotating new hens every six to eight weeks.
The next rehoming event is set for May 2. Interested adopters can find event details by submitting an application through the HenPals Network website.
However, if you’re considering adopting a hen to save on egg costs, you might want to think again.
“If your primary goal is maximum egg production, this may not be the right choice for you,” Johnson cautioned.
“However, if you’re looking for a delightful combination of a pet and backyard companions that also lay eggs, this is a great option.”
Johnson mentioned that HenPals Network has a growing waitlist ahead of the upcoming event, and she encourages residents to express their interest in specific areas.
“The more feedback we receive from people in different locations, the better we can plan for our next initiatives,” she stated.
For those interested in adopting a hen or two, stay informed about the upcoming event by visiting the HenPals Network website, which offers various guides for potential adopters.
This article was updated on April 16 to announce the second rehoming event on May 2.
