Mane in Heaven offers gifts, virtual horse visits to ill children
The folks at Mane in Heaven Miniature Therapy Horses know the pandemic is a difficult time. But their commitment to helping people by bringing joy and peace through animal-assisted therapy can have a positive impact on those who are struggling.
Just before Christmas, the Barrington Hills nonprofit organization planned a trip to Almost Home Kids in Naperville. Almost Home provides transitional care for ill children in a homelike setting. The miniature horses would visit with the children through the outside windows.
Due to a last-minute decision, the group was not allowed to bring horses. But that didn't stop Dina Morgan, president of Mane in Heaven, and Danielle McCready, vice president, from delivering their HOPE gifts.
The horse-themed packages, named after one of the horses, Hope, contained books, toys, coloring books, journals and an invitation to attend a virtual session with the horses.
“It is challenging caring for a child with complex medical needs, especially now during the pandemic when people are so much more isolated and less activities are available,” Morgan said.
“A quick virtual visit with the mini horse can be therapeutic. For a few moments, those watching can smile, laugh and it takes them away from the pain.”
During the sessions, viewers can watch the horses run around in a holiday sweater or being groomed. Morgan said she could see the smiles beyond the masks when they dropped off treats for the staff and the HOPE bags for families.
The group has adjusted how it operates. Drive-through and virtual events have replaced most in-person visits. Looking ahead to 2021, the organization will continue the virtual visits and sharing HOPE packages.
Morgan said Mane in Heaven has no paid staff and is sustained by donations and fundraisers. And it is always in need of volunteers.
“It warms my heart that Mane in Heaven can continue its mission and impact those in need. A smile, a laugh, a distraction from the pain. The fact that we take people into a magical world of mini horses and joy even for a few minutes makes a difference,” Morgan said.
For information, visit maneinheaven.org.