TAA issuing $1.7 million round of grants early to aftercare facilities

April 2, 2020 statement from Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance president John Phillips:

“Amid a global crisis, even one that closes the doors to many businesses, horses still need care.

“Thanks to our supporters, industry partners, sustainable funding programs, and rigorous financial discipline throughout our history, the TAA is able to continue its mission of accrediting and funding aftercare organizations, even during this difficult time.

“More than ever, work of aftercare is essential for the survival of our industry. While our doors may be currently closed to the public, the work of the TAA has not stopped. And even more significantly, the work of our accredited organizations has not stopped.

“During this period of economic uncertainty, we have made the decision to issue our second round of grants early. This round totals approximately $1.7 million, which is awarded to accredited organizations for the care of Thoroughbreds. Organizations should receive these funds in the next few days.

“However, for us to continue our mission and for organizations to continue their high standards of equine care, the TAA and our organizations need your support. We gratefully note that the recently enacted CARES Act allows all taxpayers an above-the-line deduction for personal charitable contributions of up to $300. The Act also increases the annual contribution cap for individual itemizers from 60 percent of adjusted gross income to 100 percent in 2020 for cash donations made directly to public charities like the TAA and our accredited organizations. And for corporations, the cap on these same contributions is increased from 10 to 25 percent.

“The TAA plans to be here for the industry. If you would like to help us continue our mission, please visit: thoroughbredaftercare.org/donate.”

 

Jennie Rees is a communications and advocacy specialist in the horse industry who spent 32 years covering horse racing for The (Louisville) Courier-Journal before taking a corporate buyout. In addition to handling communications for the Kentucky HBPA, Rees is Kentucky Downs’ publicity director, manages in-season racing publicity for Ellis Park and serves as a consultant to the National HBPA. Other projects include the Preakness Stakes, Indiana Grand’s Indiana Derby Week and work for various HBPA affiliates and horsemen’s associations.