Last Updated on June 20, 2026 by adminahb
Photo: Boomer at Bagaduce River Equine Rescue.
Thanks to the Brooke USA Bridge Grant Program, established as a joint initiative of Brooke USA and the EQUUS Foundation, the EQUUS Foundation is able to provide timely emergency assistance to equine welfare organizations facing urgent needs, helping ensure that horses continue to receive critical care when resources are stretched and time is of the essence.
The Brooke USA Bridge Grant Program demonstrates the power of collaboration to protect horses when unexpected challenges arise. The impact of this collaborative effort can be seen through the experiences of four organizations featured below: Bagaduce River Equine Rescue, Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue, Horse Haven of Tennessee, and Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare.
While each faced unique circumstances, all benefited from the shared commitment of Brooke USA and the EQUUS Foundation to strengthen the safety net for horses and the organizations that serve them.
Bagaduce River Equine Rescue
Boomer was one of the geldings that benefited from the Bridge Grant awarded to EQUUS Foundation Guardian, Bagaduce River Equine Rescue. He is an active and successful partner in a training program where he and his owner work youngsters – Boomer is as happy as a horse can be.
Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue
When a sudden medical crisis struck an entire herd of rescued horses at Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue – an EQUUS Foundation Mentor accredited organization – thanks to the Brooke USA Bridge Grant Program, Lucky Orphans received critical emergency funding exactly when it was needed most.
The team at Lucky Orphans acted immediately to protect the lives in their care. Multiple horses developed alarming symptoms almost overnight — high fevers, painful lesions, neurological distress, and more — forcing the sanctuary into emergency response mode. Horses were isolated, veterinary teams mobilized, and public programs temporarily suspended while urgent diagnostics and treatment began.
Horse Haven of Tennessee
EQUUS Foundation Mentor, Horse Haven of Tennessee, received a Bridge Grant to support their response to an urgent cruelty case. The horses lacked adequate shelter, forage, and clean water and were surviving on algae-ridden water and two moldy round bales, with no supplemental feed. Tragically, one mare had lost her foal just one day before their team arrived. The funding was used to provide surgery to two young fillies with umbilical hernias. Both have been adopted.
Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare
EQUUS Foundation Guardian, Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare, received a Brooke USA Bridge Grant to help assist with expenses associated with the unforeseen expenses tied to the care of multiple thoroughbreds in St. Thomas, USVI.
Be a Star for America’s Horses
Together, these stories highlight how teamwork, compassion, and strategic support can help equine welfare organizations navigate crises, overcome obstacles, and continue their vital work on behalf of horses in need.
Take the #HorseProtector Pledge at equusfoundation.org/pledge.
Donate at equusfoundation.org/give.