Equestrian community raises funds for Levie family

Emily Southwood - The Haut Saint Laurent equestrian community has rallied around Levie Performance Horses after a devastating fire on November 17th destroyed the stable and took the lives of 39 horses inside. The tragic loss has deeply affected many from the community, including family members, friends and boarders, who all lost beloved horses, and bid goodbye to the training facility. Jennifer Levie is an FEQ/Equine Canada certified Level 2 Western coach, and FEQ judge, who specializes in reining and western performance. The Hemmingford farm has long offered western riding lessons to students of any age or rider level. In the wake of this tragedy, many have expressed their heartbreak and their fond memories of the farm, and have stepped up to raise funds for the Levie family. Three major fundraising initiatives are well in motion, including an online auction (running until Dec 21st at www.32auctions.com/Levie Fundraiser). A gofundme.com campaign in the name of Jennifer Levie, that has to date collected close to 10K. Preparations are also in motion for a dinner fundraiser and silent auction that will be held on Saturday Dec 1 at Hemmingford Golf Club. Search @Levie Performance Horses Fundraiser on Facebook for more details. What’s clear from the outpouring of support is how much the barn has meant to so many people over the years. One of Jennifer’s former students, Montana Harman, spoke of how much the Levie horse community has meant to her: “The whole Levie family is involved in the barn, and work very hard taking care of and training the horses in their care. Jennifer and Jacky Lee teach lessons to everyone from three year olds, to youth and adult riders who compete at international levels. When I saw the list of the horses that perished in the fire, I still don’t have words. My heart is with those who lost their companions.”