MVR Hay Bank Project

2009/2010 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.

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.

This program will begin December 1st 2009 and run until May 1st 2010. 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.

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 provide you with information on programs 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.

Horse ownership is a privilege we do not take lightly. Our goal is to give you the tools necessary to be a successful owner, with horses that will thrive in your care.

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.

Ø A maximum of two horses may be fed with this program.

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

Ø Applicant must show financial need due to recent loss of employment, financial hardship or medical issue.

Ø Must have a horse-safe facility to maintain your horse.

Ø Proof of Ownership and Veterinary record.

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

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

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K.E.E.P

KY Equine Education Project

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The Build-A-Bear Workshop Bear Hugs Foundation is committed to making life more bearable for children, families and pets, in need of a helping paw. With the sale of each full-sized Bearemy’s Kennel Pals® friend -- a collection of Build-A-Bear Workshop® plush dogs -- one dollar is donated to domestic pet programs including local animal shelters, stray pet rescue and rehabilitation organizations, and pet education programs around the country. These funds are available to qualified non-profit organizations in the United States and Canada through a quarterly grant process. Visit www.buildabear.com for more information.

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