Home for Abused Children Starts Equestrian Program

A shelter for abused and neglected children in Temecula is planning an equestrian program.

Safe Alternatives for Everyone, or SAFE, plans to have the program running by August, said Patti Drew, the nonprofit organization’s development coordinator.

The project will use two stalls the City of Murrieta donated at the Murrieta Equestrian Center.

Also, Bruce Nimmo of Nimmo Construction volunteered to build a storage shed for food and supplies.

The organization hopes to help their young clients cope with abuse by learning horsemanship skills and caring for animals, Drew said.

“We know through research that the daily care of horses develops physical fitness, instills a source of responsibility in youth and provides for regular outdoor activity,” she said. “Youth who learn horsemanship skills have shown better decision-making, thinking, communication, goal setting and problem solving skills, all things our kids need today.”

The Police Activities League partnered with SAFE to offer the program.