SiGMA Foundation extends funding for Dreams of Horses Farm rehabilitation programs

The SiGMA Foundation has strengthened its support for Dreams of Horses Farm in Xagħra, Gozo, while continuing a relationship focused on mental health, rehabilitation, inclusion, and community-based care initiatives.

The farm has received ongoing backing from the foundation. It delivers equine-assisted learning and animal-assisted therapy programs for children and adults in a rural environment designed for structured engagement.

Beneficiaries include individuals with special needs, people managing mental health conditions, former inmates, and others undergoing rehabilitation or facing social challenges.

In 2024, the SiGMA Foundation contributed €50,000 (US$56,500) toward the construction of a new facility dedicated to Equestrian Assisted Learning and Animal Assisted Therapy programs. The latest contribution adds a further €30,000 (US$33,900) to support day-to-day operations and ongoing program delivery.

According to the foundation, its involvement has focused on addressing immediate requirements while also supporting the long-term operation of the farm. Funding has been directed toward both physical infrastructure and the resources needed to maintain services for beneficiaries.

The new donation is intended to help sustain therapeutic and educational activities while supporting the operational framework required to keep the programs running.

Animal-assisted learning in practice

Dreams of Horses Farm provides an environment where participants interact directly with animals through activities centered on care, routine, and responsibility.

Equine-assisted learning has gained recognition as a non-clinical support approach. Through tasks such as grooming, feeding, leading, and caring for horses, participants can develop communication skills, patience, and self-regulation. Because horses respond directly to human behavior, interactions can help individuals become more aware of their emotions and actions.

The approach is used with people experiencing anxiety, developmental conditions, trauma, and challenges related to social reintegration. Program activities are designed to encourage emotional awareness, confidence, self-esteem and interpersonal skills while providing structure through daily routines.

Program reaches diverse beneficiaries

The farm’s services are tailored to different groups within the community. Children with additional needs participate in activities aimed at supporting communication and social interaction.

Adults facing mental health challenges engage in programs that promote responsibility and engagement in a calm setting. Individuals undergoing rehabilitation are offered opportunities to reconnect with others through practical care-based activities.

The partnership forms part of the SiGMA Foundation’s efforts to support projects focused on inclusion, wellbeing and personal development. Through continued funding, the organization aims to keep therapeutic and educational opportunities available to those who rely on them.

Victor Muscat, owner of Dreams of Horses Farm, has also spoken about the importance of the relationship between people and animals, noting that such interactions provide knowledge, sensory experience and emotions that are not always transferred through conventional education.

Focus on long-term continuity

The latest funding is expected to help the farm maintain the facilities, personnel, and resources required to deliver its services on an ongoing basis.

Support covers both infrastructure and operational requirements, allowing therapeutic and educational activities to continue without interruption. As the farm expands its work, the collaboration remains focused on inclusion, accessibility, and continuity of services.

For the SiGMA Foundation, the project forms part of its commitment to initiatives that provide communities with practical resources related to wellbeing, education, and rehabilitation.