Photo provided courtesy of Lindsey Long Equine Photography
CARMA is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Howard “Howie” Zucker Grant Program, which provides funding to nonprofit aftercare organizations dedicated to the care, retraining, rehabilitation, and rehoming of retired California-raced Thoroughbreds.
As CARMA enters its 18th year of service to California racing and Thoroughbred aftercare, the organization has successfully placed more than 500 Thoroughbreds through its Placement Program and awarded more than $6.8 million in grants to approved aftercare organizations.
Named in memory of longtime Thoroughbred trainer and aftercare advocate Howard “Howie” Zucker, the grant program supports organizations working on the front lines of Thoroughbred aftercare.
“CARMA’s aftercare partners play a critical role in the long-term well-being of Thoroughbreds once their racing careers come to an end,” said Lucinda Lovitt, Executive Director of CARMA. “These grants are an investment in the organizations, people, and programs dedicated to giving these horses the futures they deserve.”
The Howard “Howie” Zucker Grant Program supports a wide range of aftercare services within the organizations it supports, including:
- Rehabilitation and veterinary care
- Retraining and second-career development
- Adoption programs
- Sanctuary and long-term care
Organizations interested in applying must meet CARMA’s eligibility requirements and demonstrate a commitment to Thoroughbred welfare and responsible aftercare practices. Site visits are conducted regularly as part of CARMA’s ongoing commitment to accountability and Thoroughbred welfare.
Applications for the 2026 grant cycle are now open and must be submitted by July 31st, 2026. Additional information and application materials can be found at carma4horses.org/carma-grants.