MSSPA to hold annual 'Focus on the Farm' celebration in Windham

The Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals (MSSPA) is once again rolling out the welcome mat for its signature fundraising event called "Focus on the Farm."

The public will be able to participate in a silent
auction of photographs of horses cared for by
the Maine State Society for the Protection of
Animals during an annual fundraising event 
called 'Focus on the Farm' in Windham on
Sunday, Sept. 14. SUBMITTED PHOTO    

The evening gathering, which highlights the organization’s life-saving work with horses, will be held at the River Road farm in Windham and promises a mix of art, food, and community spirit.

Over the past year, 25 photographers from across Maine and beyond have visited the Windham farm turning their lenses toward the horses who call the sanctuary home. Their images capture the essence of the MSSPA’s mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for horses that have suffered from neglect or abuse.

More than 80 of these photographs will be showcased during the event and offered for purchase through a silent auction.

“This is one of our favorite times of year,” said an MSSPA representative. “It’s a chance to share the beauty of the farm, the incredible work being done here, and the stories of the horses themselves. Every bid, every ticket, directly supports the animals.”

The event begins at 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, with on-site parking available for guests. Upon arrival, attendees will check in, receive a bidding number, and then have an opportunity to explore the farm.

Visitors can stroll through the scenic 124-acre property, meet members of the herd – currently numbering about 40 horses – and enjoy the sense of community that has become a hallmark of this annual celebration.

Food and drink will add to the festive atmosphere. Blue Elephant Catering will provide an array of dishes, while The Roaming Speakeasy, a mobile bar cleverly housed in a converted horse trailer, will be serving beverages throughout the evening.

Once guests have mingled and explored the grounds the gathering will move to the farm’s indoor arena. The arena, with its soft footing, will serve as the central hub for the silent auction, and other activities.

Organizers encourage creative attire under the theme “barn chore formal,” reminding attendees to wear sturdy footwear suitable for walking around the farm. “Save your stilettos for another event,” the society jokes in its invitation.

Tickets for Focus on the Farm are $50 per person and are available for purchase online at www.msspa.org/focus-on-the-farm <