The Inspire Foundation already provides therapeutic horseback riding as part of its physical, occupational and speech-language therapies, and now hopes to start providing a similar, much-needed service in Gozo.

As part of its fund-raising efforts for this project, Inspire has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise money through Zaar.com.mt - Malta's dedicated crowd-funding platform. When asked why they chose to collaborate with Zaar, an Inspire spokesperson said: "We believe this to be an exciting new platform for us. We are always looking for new ways to engage with the general public and to communicate with them about our cause."

Therapeutic horseback riding can prove very beneficial to people with special needs. The most obvious benefit is physical, since the horse provides a dynamic base of support, making it an excellent tool for increasing trunk strength and control, balance and for building overall postural strength and endurance.

"However, apart from helping them with their physical condition, therapeutic horseback riding also helps children and adults with disabilities to gain confidence. As with all animals, horses bring people together regardless of their abilities, backgrounds or history, making inclusion a reachable reality," says Claire Galea, the Fund-raising manager at the Foundation.

"We would not be able to provide this service were it not for the generous donations we receive and fund-raising efforts we undertake. I therefore urge the general public to donate whatever they can towards the introduction of therapeutic horseback riding in Gozo, because every little bit can make a great difference in someone's life," she continued.

Meanwhile, Inspire is also offering benefactors a number of rewards to thank them for their support, namely a stress ball and lovely paper notebook for donations over €25. On top of that, day-long passes for Inspire's Fitness Centre with the use of the Inspire indoor pool in Marsascala, will be given to the first 20 people who contribute.

Anyone interested in donating can visit www.zaar.com.mt and click on the Therapeutic Horseback Riding Project where you can read more about the project and its rewards.