A Standish nonprofit group that rehabilitates malnourished horses will be using its resources to feed needy people this month.

Hemlock Valley Equine Rescue will be having an “open barn” on Sunday, Dec. 16 from noon to 4 p.m. at their location on Richville Road in Standish. Steve and Mary Ann Belanger, who run the horse, pony, mule and donkey rescue farm, said they will be collecting nonperishable food and toys at their farm. At the end of the event, the couple will haul the donated items in their horse trailer to the Standish Lions Club and Standish Congregational Church food pantry.

“Our goal is to fill it full,” said Mary Ann Belanger.

The couple takes in animals that have been abused or neglected. They are licensed with the Maine Animal Welfare Program to receive confiscated animals.

Steve Belanger said some people will get a horse and not realize the commitment that comes with a large animal.

“They don’t realize it costs thousands of dollars a year to keep a horse,” he said. A horse can live up to four decades.

Vistors at the open barn will be able to see the animals, some of which are up for adoption. Others, like Mya, a 9-year-old Arabian that was neglected and underfed by a previous owner, are there to stay as companion animals.

For more information call 642-6182.

Hemlockhorses1-2: From left: Steve and Mary Ann Belanger with horses Orla and Mya stand in front of the horse trailer they hope to fill with food and toys for the needy at Hemlock Valley Equine Rescue in Standish. They are having an open barn on Dec. 16 to showcase the rescued animals and collect nonperishable food and toys.Hemlockhorses1-2: From left: Steve and Mary Ann Belanger with horses Orla and Mya stand in front of the horse trailer they hope to fill with food and toys for the needy at Hemlock Valley Equine Rescue in Standish. They are having an open barn on Dec. 16 to showcase the rescued animals and collect nonperishable food and toys.Hemlockhorses3: Mary Ann Belanger with Mya, a 9-year old Arabian, stands in front of the horse trailer she hope to fill with food and toys for the needy at Hemlock Valley Equine Rescue in Standish. They are having an open barn on Dec. 16 to showcase the rescued animals and collect nonperishable food and toys.