Ann Caine is ecstatic about a recent Trillium grant to improve facilities at Sunrise Therapeutic Riding and Learning Centre, but she says that cash is a far cry from what is required to keep the centre afloat.
“It’s wonderful; we were very fortunate to receive the full amount we asked for,” she said of the $49,400 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
The money will be used to:
– replace a leaking roof on the centre’s community room;
– repair fences to improve horse safety; and
– purchase a sound system for the riding arena and viewing room.
Yet the improvements do little to help the centre – which offers horse riding and other programs for hundreds of children and adults with various disabilities – meet its annual budget of about $600,000.
The centre, located on Concession 1 in Puslinch, raises about $250,000 on its own, and relies on government grants and private donations for the rest.
“Sunrise is really having a tough time,” Caine said, adding she has been forced to cut back on staff hours and riders due to a cash shortage. She explained part of the difficulty is educating people about what exactly is offered at Sunrise. Many assume it is simply horse rides, but that is not the case.
According to its mission statement, Sunrise officials aim to “develop the full potential of children and adults with disabilities and lead them closer to independence through a therapy, recreation, horse riding, life skills, and farm related activity program.”
Through this program, Sunrise hopes visitors can:
– develop muscle strength and flexibility;
– improve balance and mobilize the trunk and pelvis;
– improve learning skills and concentration;
– access social integration; and
– reach a sense of achievement, independence and increased self-esteem and self-confidence.
As for the future, Caine said she hopes more government grants will be provided.
“We really have to push for ongoing government support,” she said.
She added the centre also welcomes private donations, which can be made by clicking on the Canada Helps icon at www.sunrise-therapeutic.ca.
