The EQUUS Foundation is pleased to announce the merger of the EQUUS Foundation and The Rider’s Closet, a charitable program founded in 2006 by philanthropist and professional equestrian Georgina Bloomberg. The Rider’s Closet provides new and gently used riding attire free of charge to equestrians in need so they may pursue their horsemanship dreams at any age and at every level. The mission of The Rider’s Closet is also to ensure riding apparel is accessible to equine charities, scholastic riding programs, pony clubs and equestrian camp programs.
“As a lifelong animal welfare advocate and equestrian, I couldn’t ask for a better partner for The Rider’s Closet than a nonprofit dedicated to the protection of horses,” said Bloomberg. “Our merger with the EQUUS Foundation will provide limitless opportunities to benefit horses and equestrians around the country, and it’s a natural fit that will increase the visibility and positive impact of both missions.”
“The mission of the Rider’s Closet aligns perfectly with that of the EQUUS Foundation — to increase opportunities for horses and people to thrive together. Our partnership will allow more people than ever to enjoy the magic of horses and the benefits of the equine experience,” said Valerie Angeli, EQUUS Foundation VP of Engagement.
The Rider’s Closet accepts donations from around the U.S., including adult and children’s show shirts, breeches, show coats, schooling attire, boots and half chaps. Demand is especially high for paddock boots and tall boots in adult and children’s sizes, as these are the most expensive items that equestrians need to participate. For safety reasons, helmets cannot be accepted.
In its new role as a program of the EQUUS Foundation, The Rider’s Closet will continue its day-to-day operations as a free equestrian apparel exchange. It will also increase its presence at horse shows and other equine-related events to support and promote the work of the EQUUS Foundation and the Rider’s Closet, and provide a drop-off location for apparel donations.
“Given Georgina’s passion for equine and animal welfare, this merger is an especially powerful alliance. We are excited to grow together — for the love of horses,” said Angeli.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, all donations to The Rider’s Closet program of the EQUUS Foundation are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Visit equusfoundation.org/riderscloset for information about donating or requesting items from The Rider’s Closet.
Grayson, a Rider’s Closet recipient
“I have only seen my son, Grayson, cry about horse stuff once, and it was when he received a saddle,” said Grayson’s mother, Jennifer Byass-Rascoe.
“Today was the second time. He cried with each item he took out of the box from The Rider’s Closet. It means the world to us as parents who do not have the income for all the sport requires, but we try our hardest and have never turned down anything for him.”
Naya, a Rider’s Closet recipient
“I just got my clothes yesterday in the mail. The clothes are perfect and the special boots are amazing”, said Naya. “I’m so excited to ride in the schooling show wearing these. I really appreciate what you guys did. Thank you so much!”
Naya’s mother added, “Hello, you just sent my daughter her first set of English clothes ever, and she placed in every class she entered! Thank you so much for dressing her for success. It really made the difference and gave her that extra bit of confidence she needed. Thanks again!”
About EQUUS Foundation
The EQUUS Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity established in 2002, also known as Horse Charities of America, the only national animal welfare charity in the United States 100% dedicated to protecting America’s horses and strengthening the bond between people and horses. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Contact the EQUUS Foundation, Inc., at 168 Long Lots Road, Westport, CT 06880; (203) 259-1550; mail@equusfoundation.org; and equusfoundation.org.
About Georgina Bloomberg
An animal lover from an early age, Georgina Bloomberg has combined a career in international show jumping with extensive philanthropic work with animal welfare and The Rider’s Closet, an organization she founded to help provide underprivileged riders with clothes and equipment. Bloomberg, who also co-authored four young adult novels about the horse show world, is based in New York City, NY; North Salem, NY; and Wellington, FL. For more information on Georgina Bloomberg, visit www.georginabloomberg.com. Follow her Facebook page and Instagram to see more behind the scenes with Bloomberg’s horses and career.