Naugatuck Riding Center Receives Grant to Help Sandy Hook Victims

Last week, a representative from Athelas Therapeutic Riding of Otego, N.Y., presented Hidden Acres Therapeutic Riding Center of Naugatuck with a $500 donation for Hidden Acres to serve a participant from Newtown/Sandy Hook who has been affected by the school shooting. 

Understanding the positive impact horses can have on those suffering from trauma, Holly Bucalos of Athelas reached out to HATRC Program Director Jeanna Pellino, then began raising funds to help provide support for the participation of an individual from the Newtown area affected by the tragedy.  Holly and Jeanna agree that professionals in the therapeutic riding industry are very supportive of each other and states “we understand the benefits children and adults may gain from participation in equine-assisted activities and that becomes the common thread that drives our mission to serve."

HATRC horse Kendall, was also donated to the program in hopes she would bring joy and emotional healing to those impacted by trauma.  As Ms. Pellino explains, through their accepting and gentle nature, horses provide an excellent format for individuals to work on emotional challenges. 

At this time, we are reaching out to the Newtown /Sandy Hook community to in hopes of encouraging an individual that may benefit from equine-assisted activities to contact us.  Their participation in the upcoming semester would be supported through the generous donation from Athelas.   

Founded in 2008 by Mary & Theron Simons, HATRC is a 501c3 non-profit organization, currently serving 25 individuals with physical, developmental and emotional disabilities including post-traumatic stress, depression and anxiety disorders.  HATRC is a PATH International member center with certified therapeutic riding instructors and assisted by over 75 caring and dedicated volunteers.  On Sunday, June 9th, HATRC conducted its annual benefit Motorcycle & Classic Car Poker Run starting at Slainte’s Pub in Naugatuck. 

For information on participation and how you can help, contact Hidden Acres Therapeutic Riding Center at 203-723-0633, email hiddenacres2@gmail.com or visit our website: www.hiddenacrestrc.org