The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) announced it has received applications for accreditation from 27 eligible aftercare facilities. These organizations will now begin the TAA’s process of review and onsite examination to be eligible for consideration for grants in 2013 and 2014.

Applications were submitted from facilities in 13 different states in the United States and from two organizations in Canada. The facilities range in location from Kentucky, New York, and Maryland to Arizona, Washington, and California, and represent a cross-section of rescue, retirement, retraining, and adoption programs, according to a TAA release.

"We’re encouraged by the level of interest shown by such a diverse group of organizations in our first year of operations," said Mike Ziegler, TAA executive director. "Continued support from all aspects of the industry is critical in order to support our accredited facilities and the great work they are doing to help retired Thoroughbreds."

To be considered for accreditation, organizations must complete a detailed application process and careful onsite examinations by TAA inspectors and independent veterinarians