California Coastal Horse Rescue, a l0-acre nonprofit equine rescue and sanctuary in Ojai, has received a $15,000 Challenge Grant from the Hind Foundation.

In addition to sponsoring the fund’s inaugural year, the Hind Foundation will match every dollar contributed to the organization by donors along the Central Coast up to $7,500, generating a $15,000 total for the new community equine outreach.

The California Coastal Horse Rescue Emergency Hay Fund will help feed Central Coast horses that are close to losing their homes due to their owners’ financial hardship. The fund will provide temporary hay assistance without charge.

“This rare new fund is keeping many horses from losing their homes or even being euthanized due to foreclosures and a continuing difficult economy,” said Cindy Murphree, CCHR director.

“CCHR has helped abandoned, abused, neglected and displaced horses in Thousand Oaks, Moorpark and other areas for over 12 years,” Murphree said. “We coordinate temporary foster homes in the Conejo Valley and statewide, and take calls from anywhere for advice or referrals for horses in distress. We also partner with local law enforcement and fire departments to help with community horse evacuations in disasters. All of our horse assistance is provided free of charge.”

To make a tax-deductible gift, visit www.calcoastalhorserescue.com. Checks can be mailed to CCHR, 11235 N. Ventura Ave, Ojai, CA 93023.

Thousand Oaks and Moorpark residents with secure facilities can be certified foster horse families. For information, call (805) 444- 6746 or (805) 649-1090.