Napa County’s Sunrise Horse Rescue raises almost $200,000
Sunrise Horse Rescue raised almost $200,000 at its Harvest of Hope for Horses fundraiser, its first in three years.
The event was held Sept. 9 at Bob and Valerie Fish’s Blossom Creek Farm outside Calistoga. It featured dinner from Elaine Bell Catering, music by Noema, and appearances by rescued horses like Wailer, a former wild mustang from Wild Heart Restart Ranch.
Board president Lisa O’Connor announced that Sunrise is finalizing a 50-year land lease at its current location on Tubbs Lane. The nonprofit plans to build a barn and create a covered arena that will host equine-assisted learning and therapy programs for the community.
For example, the Connected Horse program is a research-backed program for people experiencing memory loss and their care partners.
“We are raising people and horses up at the same time,” O’Connor said. “And we continue to raise awareness of just how great the need is. Because the number of at-risk horses is rising, the need for rescue and sanctuary now and in the future will only increase.”
O’Connor cited the threat of wildfire and floods, the increasing price of feed and hay, and economic pressures that make it harder for people to afford and maintain their land.
Between late December 2022 and June 2023, Sunrise rescued eight horses from extreme neglect. In 2023, Sunrise has responded to more than 100 calls for help.