As we approach the critical high-demand feed months of fall and winter, many horses, become vulnerable to hay scarcity and high prices. A hay bank can provide horse owners facing a temporary financial crisis with hay and feed assistance; and further, assist them in planning for the future. A hay bank is a cooperative effort to help keep horses well-fed and healthy, even in hard times by providing support for struggling, but responsible owners.

“Sometimes, bad things happen to good horse people,” said Cindy Gendron, The Homes for Horses Coalition Coordinator. “A community hay bank can keep at-risk horses out of crowded rescues and auction stalls. Whether a stand-alone entity or part of a larger safety net program, a hay bank saves lives and keeps horses at home with the people who love them.”

The Homes for Horses Coalition is offering a free webinar on setting up and promoting a hay bank. Experts from the Colorado Horsecare Foodbank and the Michigan Horse Welfare Coalition will also provide tools for screening applicants and helping recipients create a sustainable plan for the future.

With hay prices at an all-time high in many parts of the country, equine rescues and sanctuaries are also feeling the pinch like never before. Cooperative buying programs let rescues band together with other agencies to make their hay dollars go farther. The Homes for Horses Coalition steering committee member and Founder of Zuma’s Rescue Ranch, Jodi Messenich, will share her experiences forming a cooperative buying group in CO enabling participants to save money and secure supply.

Hay banks and Cooperative Buying Programs: Keeping Horses Fed During Tough Times, Oct. 22, 2014, 1 pm ET. Free and open to all. To register visit https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/276140558

Presenters: Jill Fritz, Michigan Senior State Director, The Humane Society of the United States; Juliana Lehman, Director, Colorado Horsecare Foodbank; and Jodi Messenich, Founder/Executive Director of Zuma’s Rescue Ranch.