Winslow Therapeutic Riding Center receives $25,000 grant

On Nov. 24, Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus and Community Development Director Nicole Andersen announced that nine municipalities will receive a total of more than $1 million through the 2021 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

The Town of Warwick recipient was Winslow Therapeutic Riding Center, which received a $25,000 grant to continue increasing its Adult Day Program for adults with severe disabilities residing in Orange County.

The Adult Day Program at Winslow, a 100-acre facility just off Route 17A between Bellvale and Mt. Peter, is held five days a week, year-round, with the exception of holidays.

Each session is divided into three sections of equine-assisted activities and therapies, small animal husbandry, healthy living and nutrition, as well as additional independent living skills and activities.

Research shows that therapeutic riding promotes strength, increases flexibility, develops balance, improves coordination, improves circulatory and respiratory functions, boosts self-confidence, builds self-esteem, fosters independence and increases social skills.

Therapeutic Riding Instructors certified by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, Intl. (PATH Intl.) and Winslow’s Adult Day Program Specialists track each participant’s progress.

“We are very grateful for this Orange County Community Development grant and the Town of Warwick,” said Sue Ferro, executive director of Winslow Therapeutic Riding Center. “Our Adult Day Program is much needed in Orange County and like all our programs at Winslow, provides individuals with opportunities to interact with a number of different animals, strengthen their independent living skills, increase overall health, and improve additional skills including but not limited to social interaction, time management, problem-solving, and caring and empathy for others.”

For additional information or to make a contribution visit https://www.winslow.org/

- Roger Gavan

PIC – Winslow Therapeutic Riding Center, a 100 acre facility just off Route 17A between Bellvale and Mt. Peter.