Transporting members just became a little easier for the Indiana Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA). The organization received a shuttle bus from Horseshoe Indianapolis, adding a much needed benefit for the people they serve on the backstretch at the track.

“The Indiana HBPA is very appreciative of this donation, and it will get a lot of good use,” said Joe Davis, President of the Indiana HBPA. “The donation of this shuttle bus will allow us to utilize it for our backstretch benevolence initiatives as well as our ministry programs.”

Currently, the Indiana HBPA provides transportation services to those living and working on the backstretch at Horseshoe Indianapolis, many of which do not have transportation for weekly essentials such as food, medicine and other personal items.

The Indiana HBPA steps in to assist with rides for these individuals, and by adding a shuttle bus to their amenities, the services will be more efficient and streamlined for those who require assistance, including two trips per week to Walmart in Shelbyville for vital items such as food, prescriptions and other personal items.

“The addition of the shuttle bus will also give us a way to transport individuals to praise gatherings and other events linked to our ministry program,” added Davis. “The shuttle will be a multi-use vehicle for our organization.”

The Indiana HBPA currently has two chaplains that serve the backstretch. Otto Thorwarth, a former jockey, and Mickey Sajche, bilingual minister who also serves at Centro Cristiano Bethesda on the east side of Indianapolis, provide all types of assistance to the people living and working at the racetrack.

Daily prayer sessions are provided for the jockeys prior to the races as well as weekly bible study, hospital visits, transportation needs, and mentoring and spiritual guidance.

The Chaplains Ministry also provides frequent meal gatherings, ice cream socials and speaker series functions. The addition of the shuttle service will allot them the ability to increase and enhance attendance at off property events.

“The benevolence program Indiana HBPA provides is a wonderful resource to the people that live and work at Horseshoe Indianapolis,” said Eric Halstrom, Vice President and General Manager of Racing. “We identified a need for the sustainability and growth of this program and are thrilled to be a small part of ensuring this service continues to thrive.”