2010/2011 MVR HAY BANK PROGRAM

The mission of the MVR Hay Bank Program is to provide established horse rescue organizations, sanctuaries and law enforcement officials avenues to provide hay to horses owned by private individuals in need and to help horse owners who are facing financial hardship with temporary hay assistance; and further, to assist such entities and individuals in planning for the future. In addition to the hay assistance services, we are excited to add low cost gelding vouchers for Kentucky residents this year.

By providing this service, we strongly believe that we can help to keep Kentucky’s horses with their loving families. We firmly feel that when a horse can stay in its known environment, and with people who are educated, care about the horse, and know its history, that is the best solution available if possible. Through our hay bank, we then hope to keep Kentucky’s horses at home through critical times of need. Though our low cost gelding options, we hope to diminish the backyard breeding and over breeding of Kentucky horses to therefore help alleviate the problems of the "unwanted" horse.

This program runs from May 1st 2010 to May 1st 2011. Our resources are limited and we review applications on a first-come, first-served basis. In order to help as many people and horses as we can, we have developed the following process to ensure a positive outcome for all involved. This will help guide you through the requirements necessary to be accepted into this program. Please read it carefully, and if you have any questions, feel free to contact us. To view the report of last year's programs, please visit the button below. KY based 501(c)3 equine rescues please contact us directly. Hay or gelding assistance for large neglect cases or seizures can be made available. We require a copy of your 501(c)3 status, proof of custody and vet reference.

• First, we will give you educational materials developed by the Unwanted Horse Coalition in conjunction with veterinarians and equine scientists with the best possible information available to date on all aspects of equine care.
• Second, we will offer you assistance that will reimburse a portion the costs for gelding your stallions and stud colts.
• Third, eligibility for Hay Bank assistance will be evaluated on a case-by-case analysis of need, including, but not restricted to the items below.
  • The number of horses you own
  • Whether you are engaged in the breeding and/or regular sale of equines
  • The equine facilities on your property
  • Whether you have a regular relationship with equine professionals
• Fourth, we will work with you to develop a plan to avoid future need.
• Fifth, we ask that you not sell, give, or transfer any hay you receive from us. If you have hay left that you do not intend to use, please notify us at once and give us the opportunity to retrieve it.

Requirements for eligibility for the MVR Hay Bank Program

Ø       Applicant must be a resident of Kentucky

Ø       Applicant's horses must be personal horses; no professionals may apply. (With exception to 501(c)3 rescues)

Ø       A maximum of two horses may be fed or gelded with this program. (With exception to 501(c)3 rescues)

Ø       Income before or during time of crisis should be at or below $25,000.00 annual.

The “Hay Bank” is funded entirely by tax-deductible donations and contributions. Thanks in part to The Arabian Horse Foundation, ASPCA, K.E.E.P., Build-A-Bear Workshop Bear Hugs Foundation, My Racing Heart, and to local volunteers and businesses who have contributed to make this program possible.
Here are several suggestions about how you can help!

Organize and hold a fundraising event for the “Hay Bank.”

Pledge a yearly donation of hay or fuel.

Make a cash donation in any amount.

Volunteer to haul or store hay for the “Hay Bank.”

Think of creative new ways to help fund the “Hay Bank.”

With your help, we can make this a success for Kentucky's horses! Sponsor's for this years programs-

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Hay Bank in the News:

http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=15940

http://www.equisearch.com/horses_care/feeding/hay/horse_hay_bank_resources_061410/

http://secure.arabianhorses.org/apps/index.cgi?page=pressrel&prid=166

http://www.phelpsmediagroup.com/viewarticle.php?id=5329

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