Laurel Multiservices Center Emerging as Valuable Resource for Backstretch Community

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) is pleased to highlight the Laurel Multiservice Center as an increasingly important resource for horsemen and backstretch workers at Laurel Park.

Located less than a mile from the racetrack, the Center offers a wide range of services designed to support individuals and families in the surrounding community—including many who live and work on the backstretch. Its accessibility and comprehensive approach make it a valuable complement to the services already provided on-site by MTHA.

A One-Stop Resource for Essential Services

The Laurel Multiservice Center provides a broad array of programs and support services, including workforce development and job training, educational programming and life skills support, health and wellness resources, family services and case management, access to public benefits and social services, and youth and community engagement programs.

In addition, the Center offers a number of free, on-site amenities that are particularly valuable to backstretch workers, including a full gymnasium, laundry and shower facilities, financial planning services, a clothing distribution center, a comfortable living room/common area, barber shop services, and access to counseling services and much more. These offerings provide practical, day-to-day support that can make a meaningful difference in quality of life.

For backstretch workers—many of whom face transportation and access challenges—having a full-service resource center located nearby creates meaningful opportunities to connect with services that can improve quality of life both on and off the track.

Strengthening MTHA’s Benevolence Programs

Following the passage of HB0337 in 2025, the Multiservice Center has taken on the role of administering funding to nonprofit organizations serving the Maryland backstretch community.

After a thorough review process—including site visits and detailed discussions regarding MTHA’s existing programs—the Center approved funding that will directly support and expand benevolent services for Maryland horsemen.

This includes $25,000 in FY 2026 benevolence support and up to $50,000 in FY 2026 for dental services. The Center will revisit funding in FY2027, which will be contingent on future funding from Anne Arundel Government.

Pathway to Restart the Mobile Dental Program

One of the most meaningful outcomes of this partnership is the opportunity to restore the MTHA Mobile Dental Program, which had previously been funded through the Laurel Race Course Impact Fund Grants.

The Mobile Dental Program was widely regarded as one of the most successful and impactful services offered to the backstretch community, providing convenient, on-site dental care to individuals who otherwise faced significant barriers to treatment. At its peak, it served dozens of horsemen on a regular basis and became a trusted and essential component of the support network at Laurel Park.

When funding for the program was not renewed in FY 2026, MTHA was unfortunately forced to suspend the service—leaving a noticeable gap in care.

With the Multiservice Center’s commitment toward dental and vision services, there is now a clear path to restarting—and potentially even expanding—the Mobile Dentist program. This represents a significant step forward in restoring a critical service that directly improves the health and well-being of backstretch workers.

Building a Stronger Support Network

Beyond funding, the collaboration between MTHA and the Multiservice Center is creating opportunities to further enhance access to services. Discussions are already underway to explore solutions such as a dedicated shuttle connection between Laurel Park and the Center, which would help bridge transportation gaps and increase utilization.

Together with ongoing collaboration involving MedStar Health and MTHA’s recreation and outreach efforts, this partnership reflects a shared commitment to building a more connected, comprehensive support system for Maryland’s horsemen.

Looking Ahead

The Laurel Multiservice Center is proving to be an invaluable partner and resource for the backstretch community. Its services, combined with MTHA’s longstanding benevolence programs, create a stronger foundation of care and support for those who are essential to Maryland racing.

Most importantly, this partnership provides renewed momentum—and funding—to bring back one of MTHA’s most impactful initiatives. The return of the Mobile Dental Program will be a welcome development for horsemen and a clear example of what can be achieved through thoughtful collaboration focused on the needs of the community.

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