Grounded in healing

Venture Stables supports those suffering with PTSD to find their sense of purpose

FREETOWN - Families in crisis will now have access to healing, thanks to equine therapy.

Jasmine Bastarache, the owner of Venture Stables in Freetown, said the equine-assisted learning center will cater to veterans, first responders, firefighters, correctional officers and anyone suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

“We plan to operate new programs here at the Venture Stables and bring to light the non-profit peer support group called Brave and Broken. This ‘Christmas on the Farm’ event is just to make people more aware of these programs,” said Bastarache while assisting Ella Campbell and her cat Pepper as they ride Jack, the horse, on Saturday morning.

Christmas on the Farm offered the public pony rides, warm drinks, and snacks, including an opportunity to meet Santa Claus and farm animals.

But there was much more to this family-friendly event, located at 124 Campbell Rd., which brought in more than 100 people.

“Brave and Broken help anyone that has been injured, physically or mentally, during the service of others. I have a deep connection to this peer support group,” said Marc Bastarache.

“My personal history was a paramedic. PTSD, mental injury, and occupational stress injuries are unfortunately too common. I know co-workers and their families that are struggling, and some that have done the ultimate…” he said.

The couple believes their silent and loyal horses at the Venture Stables can help those emotionally and physically wounded find their faith again in the world, by offering them companionship and comfort in a safe environment.

For more information on these upcoming programs visit, www.venturestables.com.

DESIREE ANSTEY/JOURNAL PIONEER Jasmine Bastarache holds Jack while confident rider Ella Campbell and her cat, Pepper, go for a ride around the barn at Venture Stables in Freetown.

DESIREE ANSTEY/JOURNAL PIONEER Ozias Edmond, left, and his “Mimi”, Loretta Bertrand make the most of the fun activities, such as the sleigh, offered at the first-ever ‘Christmas on the Farm’ event held at the Venture Stables in Freetown.