I would like to begin by saying thank you to your wonderful program and staff and all who have donated to make the funds possible. I was 15 years old when my parents bought me a quarter horse to replace my tb who passed away. At 15 years old I never had to worry about my geldings expenses and when i thought of my future with him I only thought of the fun things ahead.
Well now I am 28, married with two toddlers. I always considered my family to be successful until I lost my job. Suddenly my world went upside down. Going from two incomes to one was hard. We looked at our expenses…rent,cell phones, car payments, car insurance, food, gas, cable…and then there is the horse. A $600 a month expense for an animal who was permanently lame from an injury in 2011. We moved him to a less expensive barn bringing his expense to about $300 a month and then shoes every six weeks. We still were having to decide which bill to skip and how to juggle the expenses. I knew i had to get rid of my horse who i had had longer then i had my husband!
I contacted NEER and asked if they were able to take him, which they were not. But they still offered me help instead of the response other rescues gave of simply saying sorry we are full! They told me about the feed fund which would at least alleviate some of the bill. The process of getting a feed store credit was smooth and quick, with in days I had a credit. I have now had to get assistance a few times and never have been turned away or made to feel like I should be ashamed for asking for help, if anything the woman was so understanding and supportive I actually felt a sense of hope that things would get better. My family was able to catch up in the two months we have had help.
I am so fortunate to say I have now found a job and am so grateful to still have my horse. It would never have been possible if it were not for you. I fully plan to donate and offer any help I can to you!! From the bottom of my heart and my horses heart, Thank you.
