BELTON, TX — Anyone who knows the loving bond of an animal knows the therapeutic nature of that relationship. Wings Ministries International, a non-profit in Belton, is taking that bond a step further to help foster healing for those who need it most.
“Riding Joy, I feel free. I feel like anything is possible,” said Elisabeth Daun, a 15-year-old participant in Wings Ministries International.
Daun had crippling depression about two years ago.
“I just kind of gave up, and I didn’t see a purpose in being here. So I ended up self-harming and trying to commit suicide eight times,” said Daun.
After counseling proved unsuccessful, Daun’s family turned to Wings Ministries International.
Rena Schroeder of Wings Ministries International is a survivor of sex-trafficking. She also lost two daughters to the heroin epidemic.
“I decided I was going to turn my pain into triumph. I was not going to let this take me down. So my husband and I started our non-profit, which is Wings Ministries International. We decided it’s time. Let’s get some horses, and let’s help some kids,” said Schroeder.
They partnered up with the folks at Flying H Ranch in Belton.
“I thought that was awesome. I am a recovering addict. I am a veteran. So I fully understand what she does,” said Molly Schaid, a trainer at Flying H.
Schaid said that Elisabeth has blossomed since she began building a relationship with Joy.
“She’s very open. She doesn’t keep to herself anymore. She’s very helpful,” said Schaid.
The program is open to people coping with many different types of struggles, from addiction, to trafficking, and even veterans battling PTSD.
“Sometimes we might be riding in the arena. Sometimes we might be giving one of them a bath, and you know, as we’re doing it, we’re talking with them, too. Letting them get out what’s on their mind, what they’ve seen the hurts that they have,” said Michael Schroeder of Wings Ministries International.
Programs like these come at a cost. To make a donation, call 254-394-0729. Monetary donations are greatly appreciated, but sand is also needed to prepare the ranch for rainy weather.
