Equine Therapy Helps Children Recover
In July 2018, an EF-3 tornado devastated Marshalltown, Iowa. Months later, the impact of the trauma on children and adolescents is as noticeable as it was in the initial weeks after the tornado.
Post-traumatic stress is evident throughout the community, but there isn’t sufficient access to mental health resources. Center Associates received a grant from the Midwest Early Recovery Fund to fund outpatient mental health services for children of all ages in tornado-affected areas and schools. One of the programs includes equine therapy. Giving children the opportunity to ride and maneuver a 1,500-pound horse without fear helps them learn to manage their emotions and navigate change.
