Old Friends has received a $50,000 grant from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, it was announced March 5 by Old Friends founder and president Michael Blowen.
Old Friends was selected by the ASPCA in October 2009 to apply for the “Rescuing Racers Project”, a $1 million granting opportunity designed to support horses impacted by the racing industry. Old Friends was one of six selected recipients whose mission is to promote equine welfare.
The funds will be used by Old Friends to construct new run-in sheds at the facility’s Dream Chase Farm in Georgetown, Ky., and to begin construction on two additional paddocks that will accommodate up to six Thoroughbreds.
“We are very grateful to have been chosen for this grant opportunity,” Blowen said. “It’s very satisfying to be recognized for the work we do and it’s great to be able to give even more to the horses.”
Old Friends supports nearly 100 retired racehorses, including six on its first satellite facility in New York: Old Friends at Cabin Creek: The Bobby Frankel Division.
In 2009, the ASPCA awarded more than $540,000 in the form of 164 grants to equine rescue groups and humane organizations across the country. For more information on the ASPCA’s equine programs, please visit http://www.aspcapro.org/saving-lives/equine-program.
