Lowell Correctional Institution

TRF Second Chances Program at Lowell Correctional Institution (Ocala, FL)

Located in the “horse capital” of Florida is the TRF Second Chances Program at Lowell Correctional Institute.

  • Ocala, Florida
  • Founded 2001
  • 50 Horses
  • 15 Women
  • 100 Acres

The farm does have a couple of equine celebrities in the herd – Grade 1 stakes winner Forbidden Apple, a star on the turf who earned over $1.6 million on the track. 

“We are providing good character-building inmate training, and a haven to these once heroes of the track,” said Florida Secretary of Corrections Michael W. Moore when announcing the opening of facility.

He could not have been more right. The horses bask in the warmth of Florida’s perpetual sunshine and the inmates are learning skills that can be put to use upon their release.

In five months, an inmate, J.T. says she has learned “more about horses than I thought there was to know. I really like them.” Caring for the horses has changed her life’s direction, and J.T. hopes to work at a track or a horse farm.

Florida Horse Sponsorship

While the horses relax in their well-deserved retirement, the inmates learn valuable skills that can serve them well after their release. Their experience, skills and certification in equine care will often open doors to equine related jobs.

Why sponsor a horse?

Our horses may not go down in the history books, but they still deserve a caring and compassionate retirement fit for a champion. These horses are guaranteed to have a safety net and safe landing for the rest of their lives due to sponsorship and donor based funding.

The funding and care for the retired horses comes from people like you. For your donation, depending on the level you select, you will receive a photo of your horse, information about the horse’s background, and a certificate.

Each sponsorship goes a long way to making sure the horses are given lifelong care.

Sponsorship Levels

The levels include:

  • $2,500 – Four Seasons Friend. Will feed and care for your horse for an entire year.
  • $1,000 – Forever Friend
  • $500 – Best Friend
  • $250 – Compassionate Friend

For all other friends, any amount under $250 is also greatly appreciated and will be used as part of our general fund. We can call this a “Gift of Love”.

Please meet our featured horses who are looking for their special sponsor.

Learn about our horses and their caretakers!