As the economy spirals downward and people struggle to make ends meet, Goffstown’s UpReach has become the next victim in a long line of organizations to downsize.

Effective Feb. 14, staff at the nonprofit therapeutic riding center will be reduced by 50 percent. The number of clients and horses will be reduced by March 2.

“It is particularly sad to make these reductions at a time when families need essential services more than ever,” said executive director Karen Kersting. “During the past 10 years we have accomplished so much. We encourage those who believe in our mission to step forward to join us as we rally our resources.”

According to Barb Miles, director of development at UpReach, lack of funding is the reason for downsizing, and currently, the organization needs donations more than ever.

“Donations can come in the forms of cash, hay, feed and shavings for the stable,” said Miles. “We also have an Adopt- A-Horse program for $1,500 a year.”

The Adopt-A-Horse program coves the cost of care and maintenance of the stall.

“We have several people who have adopted horses,” said Miles.

According to Miles, 75 percent of UpReach’s funding comes from grants, public donations and promotional events, such as Shaw’s receipts. “We collect Shaw’s receipts and return them for cash,” said Miles.

The other 25 percent of funding comes from the Community Bingo Center on Holt Avenue in Manchester. The hall dedicates two nights per week – Sunday and Thursday – to donations to UpReach.

“If people enjoy playing bingo, they can go there on Sundays and Thursdays to help us,” said Miles.

When UpReach downsizes the herd in March, horses that are being leased by the riding center will be returned to their owners.

“We’ll keep the horses we own,” said Miles.

One horse, Streker, an American paint, is currently up for sale. “An extremely experienced horsewoman has ridden him almost every day for the last six months,” said Miles. “So he’s in good shape.”

Discussions took place with UpReach staff last week on who would be laid off.

“Everybody’s pulling together right now,” said Miles. “I rarely use the word valiant, but it really does describe the people here.”

UpReach has a fundraising Hearts and Hooves dance scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 14, at Circle 9 Ranch in Epsom. There will be line and partner dancing from 8 to 11 p.m., with live music by Kersting’s band, Karen Morgan and Pony Express.

Admission is $10 and proceeds will benefit UpReach.