Dollars For DNA

“Dollars for DNA” is a new program developed by the AMHA Welfare & Rescue Committee to provide free DNA testing kits to registered 501(c)(3) rescues that help Morgan horses who find themselves in “at-risk” situations. Currently, a DNA Testing Kit costs $50 per horse (which covers the actual cost of the testing). 

The American Morgan Horse Educational Charitable Trust (AMHECT), a 501(c)(3) organization, collects and distributes the funds. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Initial funding of the program was through a fundraiser at The Grand National & World Championship Morgan Horse Show® in October 2021, fundraising by the AMHA Youth, and generous matching funds from the Heidi E. Kunkel Foundation and the Law Office of Kathryn Kirsch, PLLC. The longevity of this program is dependent upon ongoing donations and support. 

If you would like to donate to “Dollars for DNA,” please make your check payable to AMHECT and mail it to the AMHA Office (4037 Iron Works Parkway Ste 130, Lexington, KY  40511-8508) or click HERE.

Why does a rescue need to DNA test a horse?  

Many at-risk Morgans have been separated from their registration papers, their identity is lost. DNA testing can restore their Morgan identity and make rehoming easier for the rescue. Once identity is restored, it may also be possible to locate a person(s) to assist with rehoming through the AMHA Full Circle Program. 

Who is eligible to apply for “Dollars for DNA” funding? 

All verifiable 501(c)(3) rescue agencies are eligible to apply.  

When will the “Dollars for DNA” be available to the rescues? 

Applications will be accepted starting on January 2, 2022. 

How does a rescue apply? 

Step 1:  Complete the “Verification of 501(c)(3) Status Form” and submit it to AMHA. Once the agency’s status is verified, it will be placed on a listing for future reference. 

     Verification of 501(c)(3) Status Form

Step 2:  When a DNA Testing Kit is needed, complete the “DNA Kit for Unknown Horse Request” as usual. In the payment section, check “Request for Dollars for DNA Funding” and complete the spaces for Rescue Name and Tax ID Number. Submit your form to the AMHA Registry staff. Forms available below: 

      *DNA Kit Request for Unknown Horse (Complete the form as usual for your unknown horse. Apply for Dollars for DNA funds by completing the box "For Approved Rescue Agencies" on Page 2)

Step 3: The application will be reviewed, and the applicant notified of acceptance or denial by the Registry staff. 

If you have any questions or would like information on applying for this program, please contact Registrar Erica Eulau at (802) 985-4944 (extension 301) or erica@morganhorse.com. 

*Note: The Dollars for DNA Program will be available while funding lasts. AMHA reserves the right to limit the amount of funds issued to each agency.  

For a listing of rescues that assist Morgan horses, click HERE. 

For a listing of “Full Circle Angels” or to sign up as an Angel, click HERE. 

For a listing of the Welfare & Rescue Committee Members, click HERE.