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NYCHA Children Saddle Up For Therapeutic Riding

Every summer the New York City Housing Authority plays the ponies, but children are the real winners. In collaboration with the New York Therapeutic Riding Center, NYCHA provides a nine-week Therapeutic Horseback Riding "Equestria" Program to residents with physical disabilities, between the ages of 6 and 15. Started in 2000, the program runs on Saturday’s from June to August and is free to disabled youth.

Besides being fun, riding is great for children dealing with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, mental retardation, and developmental disabilities. Benefits include improvements in balance, coordination, mobility, strength, and confidence. Approximately 20 volunteers help with the 45-minute, therapeutic riding classes, which are also attended by a physical or occupational therapist at Manhattan’s Chateau Stables on West 48^th Street.

NYCHA Youth receiving riding instruction.
Photo credit: Lloyd Carter

Richard Brodie, executive director of the New York Therapeutic Riding Center found this years’ course to be especially memorable because of the commitment made both by the children and their caregivers. “The kids were just great out there and we had excellent attendance,” said Brodie. “These families have a lot of stresses to deal with like income, other children, and working on Saturdays, so it’s tremendous to see the effort made by them.”

Mr. Brodie hopes that the classes can become year-round because they are held indoors. “It’s a great situation because we don’t have the noise and distractions from outside that can spook the horses, and we also don’t have to deal with weather issues,” he said.

At the conclusion of the program, the children receive graduation honors for their impressive progress in riding. To find out more about the New York Therapeutic Riding Center call (212) 535-3917.

By Brent Grier
September 14, 2010