OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Ocala nonprofit Ponies for Patriots and Pint Size Therapy is hosting a fundraiser to help launch their new therapeutic endeavor at Azul Tequila in Ocala on Monday, August 10, 2026.
The charity, founded last year by Blue Star Mom Dawn Lomelo to help heal veterans, seniors and others in need through equine therapy, is calling for donors for its forthcoming Freedom in Motion Trail initiative. The Freedom in Motion Trail “will create a wheelchair accessible trail where our miniature therapy horses will pull specially designed carts, allowing our senior visitors from Bridgewater Assisted Living, our senior veterans and physically challenged veterans to enjoy the peaceful beauty of nature while experiencing the healing companionship of our therapy horses,” according to a statement.
Miniature horse Fancy will be at the fundraiser for the first hour, showing folks how just the proximity to these animals lowers tension and creates natural bonds that help individuals cope with stress, PTSD, chronic illness and other issues.
“As a Blue Star Mom, with a son currently serving, I founded Ponies for Patriots after making a promise to give back to those who have served and others in our community,” said Lomelo in a statement. “Today, our miniature therapy horses provide comfort, companionship, stress relief, and hope to veterans, seniors in assisted living and children facing illness.”
The fundraiser runs from 6=8 p.m. Azul Tequila is located at 7859 SW HWY 200, Unit 105 in Ocala.