Nobody understands the hardships the small breeder endures better than small breeders.
For the farms who are managed and employed by two or three people, a family or even alone, one small crisis can be a huge blow to that farm, essentially putting them out of the business and industry they love. It is for that reason that the Indiana Thoroughbred Alliance (ITA) has created a crisis fund for Indiana Thoroughbred breeders.
“When you're faced with a disaster, it's more the aftermath that hits you the hardest,” says ITA board member Christine Cagle, who was faced with such a disaster this past winter. “You feel so alone and drowning. Yet, we're so proud that we don't want to ask for help.”
Last month, Christine and her husband, Vince, hosted a large gathering at Cedar Creek Winery and Brewery in Martinsville, Ind., as a thank you for all the help and support the couple received when their farm was consumed by a fire. The event highlighted the meaning of family, support and small business, thanks to food donated by Maple Grove Market, a silent auction, pie contest and pie-in-the-face contest. All the proceeds from the afternoon went towards the ITA to help create a crisis fund for the future.
The event raised almost $5,000 – a small drop in the bucket for some, but a big boost should someone need it.
“A lot of the small breeders don't have health insurance or sufficient savings, should something happen, which is why we wanted to create something like this,” says Cagle.
The ITA would like to thank the groups that made the event a success, including Maple Grove Market, Horseshoe Indianapolis, Cedar Creek Winery and music played by the 78s. More events are in the works to help raise more money for the crisis fund as the ITA board works to develop a plan for applications and distribution.
“Hoosiers are known for their hospitality and making things work, so doing something so we can stand up and say, 'Here's a little bit of something to help ease the pain. How else can we help you?' is just one way we can support each other,” says Tony Wolfe, DVM, president of the ITA.
More information regarding the Indiana Thoroughbred Breeders Crisis Fund will be made available later this summer and can be found on the ITA website http://indianaTB.org. For more information, follow the ITA on social media.
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