WAKEFIELD, R.I. -- Thanks to the generous support of the We Promise Foundation, the charitable arm of Chartway FCU, and other donors, Matty Fund families welcomed spring vacation at Camp Matty, a therapeutic horseback riding camp for children with epilepsy. Participants will enjoy horseback riding at Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Facility as well as other activities planned by The Matty Fund staff throughout the week.
“Camp Matty gives children with epilepsy the opportunity to socialize in an accepting environment, free of the stigma that is sometimes associated with the diagnosis. It is a wonderful program where children realize that they are not alone in their journey,” said Marisol Garcia, executive director of The Matty Fund.
Horseback riding is considered a uniquely beneficial form of therapy. The physical benefits of muscle strengthening and improved coordination are paralleled by the social and psychological benefits of the program. The children will also be amused by special guest, Pepper the Entertainer, who will do magic shows, face painting and balloon games. The activities are designed to foster a sense of teamwork and friendship among the children.
This is the fourth year Chartway FCU’s We Promise Foundation has sponsored camp for children supported by The Matty Fund. In total, the foundation has donated $40,000 to send Rhode Island youth to camp.