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For the Herd: Help School Horses in Need

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Riding school horses are in desperate need of your help.

Public riding stables have closed since being classified as non-essential services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Without the revenue from lessons and camps, riding facilities are unable to provide the basic care for the health and welfare of their beloved lesson horses.

This campaign began as a grassroots effort known as “Helping the Schoolies” that was founded by Jen Sweet, a long time equestrian coach. Jen has partnered with Ontario Equestrian to expand the overwhelming support and kindness expressed to try help as many school horses as possible.

Lesson horses, or “schoolies” as they’re often nicknamed, are used to teach people how to ride in a safe and progressive way. These incredible animals are the feeder system for our sport and the pillars to our industry. 

Think of a pony ride, barn field trip, or a summer camp and you’ll quickly remember the joy that these generous, loving animals provide.

Please lend a hand of support to helping feed and care for Ontario’s lesson horses today.

Ways You Can Help
1. Donate what you can to For the Herd's GoFundMe campaign here - these horses are in need right now
As we are a not-for-profit provincial sport organization, donations are unfortunately not eligible for tax receipts. However, we are dedicated to respond to the urgency of need and donations will be disbursed by a funds distribution committee to riding schools who have applied for support through FortheHerd.ca

2. Donate supplies via For the Herd's website  - hay, shavings, feed

3. Donate services via For the Herd's website  - veterinary, farrier services

4. Foster a school horse with any available stabling or paddocks you can offer, contact via For the Herd's website 

And, of course, please help share this campaign. The more we rally support, the more impact we can make to help these beloved horses during this time of urgent need.

Do it #fortheherd


About the For the Herd funds distribution committee:
The campaign is being supported by a funds distribution committee made up of volunteer representatives from the equine community. This committee will review anonymized submissions to distribute funds. For more details on the criteria for funds distribution, please visit For the Herd . 

About Ontario Equestrian: 
We believe horses and horse sport are important to who we are as Ontarians. From first time riders to seasoned competitors, more and more people are experiencing the special bond between horse and rider.
At Ontario Equestrian, we are focused on enhancing the experience for our members. Since its inception in 1977, Ontario Equestrian has been dedicated to promoting the sport and providing programs, while establishing supports and guidelines for a safe and level field of play for both equine and human athletes.

Organizer and beneficiary

Ontario Equestrian
Organizer
Richmond Hill, ON
For the Herd
Beneficiary

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