It is very important for these cats to be neutered. Aside from limiting the feral cat population, it will improve their dispositions so that socializing can begin. If these cats are truly feral, it is a long haul. I do TNR (trap/neuter/release) and have tamed one of the ferals who was under a year old. It takes patience and a lot of time devoted to being as close to the cat as possible, talking/singing/reading aloud so the kitty becomes accustomed to you and eventually trusts your touch. I would sing and read to Muskrat (tortie) while holding my hand still in her cage, waiting for her to decide when she felt safe enough to seek out my touch. Forcing oneself on a cat never works . . . it only creates stress and anxiety for them.

It was worth every hour spent when Muskrat finally approached my hand and let me pet her for the first time . . . . . . best of luck to you in working with and finding homes for the barn kitties!