Foundation Carries on Mission Of Support for Horsemen

The Maryland Horsemen’s Assistance Foundation, created in 1947, continues with its mission of providing financial assistance for extraordinary circumstances to eligible employees who actively work at Maryland racetracks and Thoroughbred farms.

The MHAF, a 501c-3 charitable organization, works hand-in-hand with the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, which provides various benefits and assistance for trainers and backstretch employees. The MHAF at times serves to offer funding on top of the regular MTHA benefits if warranted.

The MHAF is supported financially by fines levied by the stewards and Maryland Racing Commission as well as private donations. However, with the advent of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Agency several years ago, fine revenue was greatly reduced as it now goes to HISA for operations.

For the previous two years, fines have generated roughly $9,000 a year in income. Thanks to the generosity of Thoroughbred Charities of America, grants have helped push total income to about $25,000 per year. The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, which handles MHAF business, was also successful in obtaining a $50,000 grant from Anne Arundel County to pay for treatments provided by Mobile Dentist from the fall of 2024 through April of this year.

In 2024, the MHAF provided $20,000 for living expenses, $17,000 for dental expenses, $9,000 for doctor- and hospital-related expenses, and $5.200 for burial expenses and memorial services.

“The Foundation unfortunately lost funding when some fine money shifted to HISA, but our organization continues to provide important assistance to our community,” MHAF President Linda Gaudet said. “We have applied for grants and have received those funds, which has helped a great deal. And note that as a charitable organization, we accept contributions, which are always appreciated.”

To make a donation, make checks payable to the Maryland Horsemen’s Assistance Foundation Inc. and forward to: Maryland Horsemen’s Assistance Foundation, 500 Redland Court—Suite 105, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Information about the MHAF and eligibility is available at www.mdhorsemen.com/mhaf.

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