B.E.S.T. (Backstretch Employee Service Team of New York, Inc.) is the organization in the backstretch that provides a full range of health and human services to support workers in the barn areas of the racetracks at Belmont Park, Aqueduct and Saratoga.

The goal of B.E.S.T. is to draw upon strong connections to resources in the racing industry and extended community so that we can all help backstretch workers lead healthy and full lives.

To donate call (516) 488-3434, or visit www.bestbackstretch.com

The Belmont Child Care Association (BCCA) is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to sustaining a quality Child Care Center, Anna House, for the benefit of working families at The New York Racing Association thoroughbred racetracks. BCCA is committed to providing a safe, nurturing environment and an outstanding early childhood education to the children of the backstretch workers. 

BCCA depends on donations to continue its work.  Every donation is very much appreciated and means we can continue to provide the children with care.  To donate call (516) 488-2103, or visit www.belmontchildcare.org

The Race Track Chaplaincy NY Division has been serving all persons involved in the horse racing industry in New York for over 25 years, primarily stable area workers and front office personnel.  We minister not only to the spiritual needs, but also to their physical, emotional, recreational, social and educational needs. These are some of the many programs we offer: conduct non-denominational religious services, food pantry & clothing closet, recreational activities, guidance with educational financial aid & scholarships, tutoring for children & providing school supplies, holiday celebrations for all workers and their families and outreach to the entire racing industry.

Our programs have been highly successful and have proven to be a positive influence in the lives of those we serve. Your support is greatly appreciated it. 

For more information you can visit our office at Gate 6, Belmont Park Racetrack, or you can contact us at (516) 488-6000 ext 4063, E-mail rtcany@aol.com or visit www.rtcany.org. 

Mail in donations: RTCA New York 2150 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont NY 11003

The Backstretch Education Fund offers educational programs to backstretch workers at Belmont and Aqueduct racetracks which enable them to create better lives for themselves through their own efforts. These include:

• The Groom Development Program, vocational training for grooms and hotwalkers taught by top professionals in the industry. Classes cover all aspects of the care of the thoroughbred racehorse and benefit owners, trainers, workers, and horses alike.

• English language and literacy classes offered on three levels. Horseman’s English is also offered to all students.

• We have opened a state of the art language lab and communications center offering online learning in the library next to the backstretch kitchen.