This project aims to create a safe relaxing environment for disabled children and their families by building a horse therapy centre for residential stays and an equestrian riding arena. The children will attend therapeutic riding sessions twice a day, bond with horses, and enjoy beautiful surroundings. Their parents will have time to get away from the daily routine and experience respite. Our organization will provide all that to the disabled children and their families for free.

Challenge

The health care system in Bulgaria is one of the least developed in Europe. It is not adequate to meet the needs of disabled children and their parents. There is little state funded support for rehabilitation. Disabled children and their families also experience social exclusion and marginalization. We know most children with special needs and their parents struggle financially in Bulgaria. PQHFB responds to that by offering free equine-assisted therapy and the opportunity to experience nature.

Long-Term Impact

Being with horses and doing specifically designed exercises is proven to have a long-term positive effect on many physical and mental disorders. The children gain a sense of independence, a chance they rarely have under the pressure of a disability. The parents benefit from respite. PQHFB has specifically chosen the American breeds of Paint and Quarter Horses due to their friendly and calm nature. That makes them especially suitable for children with disabilities.

References

1. https://www.pqfbulgaria.org/
2. https://www.pqfbulgaria.org/
3. https://www.facebook.com/paintquarterfoundation
4. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTtEPiAb3oDcwwdeYloKx_A
5. https://www.instagram.com/paintquarterfoundation/

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