Saddles of Joy recovers from storm damage

Residents in Yuma said they suffered minor to little damage following Monday night’s Monsoon storm.

However, Saddles of Joy Inc., the non-profit therapeutic riding program that serves special needs children, suffered major damage from the storm.

“This big, old tree has been providing us shade for a long time,” Randy Smith, Executive Director for Saddles of Joy said. “Well, mother nature decided to deliver us a nice little blow, but we’ll bounce back.”

According to Smith, one small animal was injured, but safely rescued Tuesday morning.

Moreover, every other ranch animal was reported safe.

However, the property suffered major damage after a tree uprooted and landed near an animal pent.

“It’s not necessarily a bad thing, it’s just bothersome,” Smith said. “But it’s going to require a lot more work [I’m unable] to provide even with my volunteers, so I’m asking for any help I can get.”

The community is encouraged to volunteer their time and assist with storm clean-up by contacting Randy Smith: (928) 247-3924.