Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance announced today that $4.7 million in grants will be awarded to 86 Thoroughbred aftercare organizations that currently hold accreditation status for 2025.
This financial support is designed to assist organizations in delivering exceptional care and rehabilitation services for retired racehorses. Since its inception in 2012, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has seen significant growth, expanding from 23 to 86 accredited organizations and increasing its annual grants from $1 million to $4.7 million. In total, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance has awarded over $40.74 million in grants, allocated specifically for equine care. These accredited organizations have successfully retrained, retired, and rehomed approximately 20,000 Thoroughbreds across 175 facilities.
Of the $4.7 million in grants awarded this year, $250,000 was provided by the Commonwealth of Kentucky and is being delivered directly to accredited aftercare facilities in Kentucky. For more details about the Commonwealth of Kentucky's contribution, please refer to the press release distributed earlier this year.
Earning accreditation from Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is a significant distinction for organizations committed to the care and well-being of retired racehorses. This accreditation reflects compliance with rigorous standards for horse welfare, facility operations, and overall management. It underscores an organization's ongoing commitment to excellence in equine care, ensuring that retired racehorses continue to receive the highest level of attention and compassion.
"Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance is proud to continue supporting our 86 accredited organizations through this year's grant awards," said Janice Towles, Director of Accreditation & Grants, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. "This funding helps sustain the remarkable efforts of these organizations to continue their incredible work as they provide care, rehabilitation, and second-career opportunities for retired Thoroughbred racehorses. We commend their ongoing commitment to giving every horse a secure and rewarding life after the track."
Organizations seeking accreditation must successfully complete a detailed application and inspection process to demonstrate adherence to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Code of Standards. The Code of Standards encompasses five core areas: operations, education, horse health care management, facility standards and services, and adoption policies and protocols. All facilities housing Thoroughbreds within each organization are inspected, and continued compliance is verified through periodic updates and re-inspections as a condition of accreditation.
Support for Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance comes from across all facets of the Thoroughbred industry, including owners, breeders, trainers, stallion farms, racetracks, sales companies, horsemen's groups, foundations, veterinarians, horseplayers, racing fans, and wagering technology companies. The charitable donations received throughout the year directly fund the grants distributed to Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance-accredited organizations. This united effort reflects the industry's deep and ongoing commitment to the care, dignity, and future of Thoroughbreds after racing, embodying the mission of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
"Each year, we're proud to expand the reach of our grants and strengthen our support for accredited aftercare organizations," said Stacie Clark-Rogers, Operations Consultant, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. "Exceeding previous funding milestones is a direct reflection of our commitment to the lifelong welfare of Thoroughbreds and the generosity of our donors. Their continued support ensures more retired racehorses have the opportunity to transition safely and successfully into their next chapters."
To learn more about accreditation through Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance or to become a supporter of accredited aftercare visit: thoroughbredaftercare.org.
This press release has not been edited by BloodHorse. If there are any questions please contact the organization that produced the release.
