Westfield Center to Host Harvest Festival for Residents and Families

WESTFIELD — Westfield Center will host a harvest festival for all of its residents, families, and employees on Wednesday, Oct. 26 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at 60 East Silver St. in Westfield.

In addition to games, face painting, refreshments, vendors, and raffles, Westfield Center will also welcome Ginger, a 17-year-old palomino quarterhorse. Ginger, from A.J. Stables of Westfield, will meet and greet residents and provide pony rides to all the children in attendance.

Ginger is a longtime member of the A.J. Stables family. She has taught hundreds of children how to ride and given many adults the opportunity to go on a trail ride with no experience. Her calm and peaceful demeanor provides many children with the opportunity to learn about horses and how to work with them in a safe space. She is patient and kind to all that come in contact with her and is always willing to lend a listening ear for anyone who wants to talk.

Westfield Center is a skilled-nursing facility offering post-hospital, short-term rehabilitation as well as long-term and respite care. Many residents have never had the opportunity to touch a horse, and some will be reliving a memory from their younger years.