North Augusta rescue aims to heal kids through horses
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - Healing with horses is what one local rescue is doing for kids of all ages.
Hope for Hooves Rescue is getting ready to welcome kids who are navigating crises, trauma and life challenges.
They aim to heal with the help of these horses, mentors and you at home.
Many of the farm animals at Hope for Hooves are rescues, all with different stories.
Soon, kids will be able to learn more about them through the Healing with Horses program.
Heritage Academy welcomes students with red carpet
Wednesday was the first day of classes for Heritage Academy in Augusta, and staff rolled out the red carpet.
This is designed for kids and teens with disabilities or those who have experienced any kind of trauma.
“A lot of them have multiple things going on in their background and to work through that process to get to a point where they are more healthy emotionally, physically, spiritually, that’s a part of what we are here to do,” said Bentley Roberson with the Board of Directors.
Throughout the 10 weeks, kids will learn how to care for the horses.
Roberson says it’s important for the kids to see that they’re needed.
“You’re building a relationship with that horse. The child cares for the horse, the horse gets a sense of trust, and it’s mutually beneficial. So that building of trust is important to build up to the stages of riding a horse,” said Roberson.
Because of the community’s generosity, the program is free.
However, the rescue can use more mentors to work closely with each child and teen.
Local nonprofit gives baby formula to parents in need
The Augusta Partnership for Children says that every Wednesday in August, they’ll give away baby formula to those in need.
Roberson says the mentor will benefit just as much as the kids.
“Seeing a child just come out where they didn’t feel a sense of purpose initially or their self-esteem was damaged and no confidence, and to see that child come along in the 3-month period and to do some of their healing here is probably the most rewarding thing,” said Roberson.
New this year, they’re adding a bible study to the program as well.
Registration is still open, but kids are being put on a waiting list until the rescue gets more mentors.
You do have to meet a few requirements and be at least 18.
The program starts September 17 for 10 weeks.
To become a mentor, volunteer or make a donation, visit https://hopeforhooves.org/what-we-do/.
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