Saturday April 3, 2021 Equine Rescue of Aiken suffered a severe loss. The heart of our rescue caught fire and all that is left is remnants of what used to be our beloved barn. Saturday evening our farm staff finished feeding and had left for the day 15 minutes before a large explosion was heard. Board member Debbie Rhodes heard the explosion and ran to the barn. We had Whistle in a stall being medically treated for a severe wound on his muzzle. Debbie was able to get Whistle out of the barn, but he still sustained heat burns to his back.  Whistle's injuries  were  cared for by Performance Equine Vets.  He is has recovered from the fire injuries but his initial muzzle wounds continue to need treatment.     The barn, and everything in it, was lost in the fire.  The barn was the hub for our operation housing our office, medical supplies, records, tack and feed for our 60+ horses. We remain in good spirits, but this is a huge loss for Equine Rescue of Aiken as well as future rescues as this setback has caused us to regroup.  

Rebuilding the "Heart" of the Rescue.

We have developed a Capital Campaign that includes plans for a 4,600 sq. ft. barn.  Plans include a 10 stall barn, turn-out paddocks with lean-to, an office/meeting room, a covered entry and breezeway.  

The Rescue is one of the largest horse rescues in the southeast rehoming more than 1,400 equines.   Often referred to as "a hidden gem of Aiken", we have an average of 2,500 visitors each year.   We host several programs for community groups, military, veterans and children where our horses impact lives.  

When the fire destroyed over $450,000 in buildings and property, it destroyed our ability to continue many programs which required a classroom setting.  It also destroyed our ability to received those horses requiring a stall for medical care.  Turning away the types of horses that needed us the most.  

Our initial goal is to raise $240,000 to rebuild the barn.   There are two opportunities to help with the rebuilding.  Please note that  100% of  your donation to our CAPITAL CAMPAIGN will be used for building the barn.   

1.   By making a donation to BUILD A BARN or 

2.  Purchasing an ENGRAVED BRICK 

Commemorative, engraved bricks will pave the entry and line the aisle of the new barn.  Commemorative, engraved Black Sugar Tiles will be placed permanently, on either side of the entry door to the barn, welcoming everyone who visits the Rescue.  

BUILD A BARN DONATIONS:

Paypal: donate@aikenequinerescue@gmail.com

Venmo: @aikenequinerescue

By Mail/Drop Off;   Aiken Equine Rescue    532 Glenwood Drive Aiken, SC 29803

Or use the DONATE Button below.

Our Tax-Identification number is 20-5162723