June 1, 2008 — The victims of the recent tornadoes in Iowa have lost almost everything they own, including their homes, barns, many horses and ponies, and all of their equipment. One of the local Pony Clubs in the area has started to collect items for those people and equines in need.
Two families have lost every single thing they own. The children are members of the Silver Bits Pony Club, and the club has taken on the job of helping these families.
They need first aid items for their horses, such as gauze, vet wrap and antibiotic cream. Sheets for horses and ponies in all sizes are needed, and stable supplies (like new brushes, buckets, lead ropes, horse-related toys for small children, horse equipment from hoof picks to halters and any tack) would be very appreciated and are needed to replace what was lost. Any tack items which they cannot use will be sold to raise money for what they need.
For the families themselves, children’s clothing is needed in girls’ sizes 14-16 and 10-12. Boys’ clothing in sizes 8-10 and 4-6 is also wanted. Riding clothes for any size children and adults are welcome. Please make sure that anything sent is clean and in excellent condition.
Gift cards from Target and Wal-Mart are very helpful since the stores are local and easy to get to. The families whose homes were destroyed do not have any household necessities and will be starting from scratch. Please put “Silver Bit Pony Club” on the gift cards.
“If you would like to send money, please make everything out to ‘Silver Bits Pony Club,'” writes District Commissioner Bridget Bryson in the club’s blog. “We have opened a relief fund, and that money will be used toward horse care and vet bills.”
Any gifts and packages can be sent to:
Silver Bits Pony Club
c/o Cindy Hainline & Bridget Bryson
32110 Westbrook St.
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
For more information or to ask questions about what to send, visit www.silverbitsponyclub.blogspot.com.