from the Thoroughbred Charities of America

The board of directors of the Thoroughbred Charities of America has approved grants totaling $1,592,225 to 147 non-profit organizations in 35 states involved with rescue, research, backstretch education, and therapeutic riding programs.

TCA raises money through a "United Way" method, which provides industry supporters a way to give to one entity which in turn distributes the funds to hundreds of non-profit Thoroughbred non-profit organizations each year.

"Since horse slaughter has been greatly reduced during the past few years, there has been an increase in unwanted horses, putting a severe financial burden on the horse rescue groups who receive much of their support from TCA," TCA president Herb Moelis said.

TCA raises funds primarily through their annual Stallion Season and Art Auction, which is set for Dec. 5 at Keeneland. In its 19th year, the TCA auction has raised more than $15 million, with more than 96 cents of every dollar going directly to the charities.

"Nearly every stallion farm donates seasons to the TCA auction, purchased by other supporters, creating the funds so desperately needed by the very charities handling the industry's ex-racehorses, backstretch, research and other vital non-profits," said Liz Harris, TCA executive director.

For additional information, visit www.ThoroughbredCharities.org.