Therapeutic Riding Receives Grant

Fifteen students from the Little Britches Therapeutic Riding Inc. program at Lee’s Stable are guaranteed an eight-week spring session, thanks to a $3,500 grant from the Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut.  The grant was made possible by the Marion Wm. & Alice Edwards fund and will cover the instructor’s salary and pony rentals.

The Little Britches mission is to provide unique, equine-based therapies to special needs and at-risk individuals. Students benefit in a variety of ways, depending on their individual goals. Most will improve their balance, muscle tone, core strength, and posture. Many will work on speech, communication and cognitive skills. All practice and improve social skills with volunteers, other riders, and the instructor. They also bond with the horses and ponies, and experience increased self-esteem and confidence as they accomplish specific, individualized goals.

Little Britches has operated in Litchfield County for 32 years, and currently runs programs on four sites in Litchfield, Woodbury, and Roxbury.