Empowered by a successful Trust Horizon grant of $3000, EBOP Riding for the Disabled is now able to connect power to its new wheelchair-accessible ablution block.

This is a first for EBOP Riding for the Disabled, which has a 52-year history of providing therapeutic riding sessions for people with a range of disabilities, from as young as 5, to beyond 60 years old.

Volunteers make these sessions possible, with over 30 riders attending during any one week.

EBOP Riding for the Disabled has also undertaken a huge fundraising effort to secure the ablution block, which meets a critical need.

“Although we did have a space for riders to go, it wasn’t ideal,” said chairperson Heidi Cooper, referring to the one restroom on-site, which was not wheelchair accessible.

The final hurdle was the electrical connection, with Trust Horizon taking the reins in support, ensuring this piece of the puzzle was implemented.

Trust Horizon trustee Merrin Stables said the accessible ablution block would have a significant positive impact for volunteers, riders, whānau and the community who come to support the club.

“As the foundation currently hosts schools and riders from Whakatāne, Ōpōtiki and Kawerau – the additional facilities will be welcomed by the whole region.”