The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) has secured a $60,000 matching gift from the Santulli Family Foundation to launch the 2019 Hay Drive challenge. The Santulli’s will match every dollar received by the TRF up to $60,000 for the Hay Drive campaign that will launch on September 25, 2019.
The TRF’s goal for the 2019 Hay Drive is $150,000 to offset the cost of hay for the 650 former racehorses in its care.
“We are extremely grateful to the Santulli Family Foundation. This generous challenge gift and vote of confidence will inspire donors, especially those who wish to double the impact of their gift,” says Jennifer Stevens Director of Development and Communications for TRF. “This gift will go a long way towards helping us meet this essential need and goal.”
The TRF Hay Drive is one of the most important campaigns for the organization which is now in its 36th year of providing rehabilitation, retraining and retirement for Thoroughbreds no longer able to compete on the racetrack. The campaign will be conducted by direct mail, email and social media as well as one-on-one donation requests.
“Hay is our largest horse care expense and the most important element of a horse’s diet, especially in the winter. The matching gift will lift our critical campaign off to a great start”, added Jennifer Stevens.
“The Santulli’s have been faithful supporters of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation for many years and have covered the cost of hay at the TRF flagship Second Chances Program at Wallkill Correctional Facility. As long-time thoroughbred owners they are well-aware of the importance of aftercare and best management practices. Their very generous gift will vastly elevate the hay supply for the entire herd of rescued and retired Thoroughbred racehorses for the whole is year”
To give to the Hay Drive please visit the TRF giving page here: https://www.trfinc.org/haydrive/ Any gift, however small, is greatly appreciated, and every bale of hay will certainly make a difference to our herd.