If you're actually going to keep a horse, sign up with a facebook group or two that are horse people. There's a surprising amount of stuff that can be had free or cheaply; horses come in a lot of different sizes, in addition to temperaments. Some are not compatible with other particular horses. For a lot of reasons, horses are not always in a "forever" home; consequently, there's ALWAYS gear on offer, and deals to be had. Right now I know of a next to new Drafty saddle for less than two bills, BUT it's an 18-inch seat. Look around. Sharing a truckload of hay gets a better volume price. If your group is big enough, pallet loads of bagged feed are pretty reasonable, too.
For those with little equine experience, High School Rodeos and Cash Rodeos are common here in the Western States, and they are ALWAYS looking for volunteers. As long as you can keep your hands where they are supposed to be, and you're willing to work, there's experience to be had. Sale Barns, and Riding Arenas often need RELIABLE hands, as well. Just make SURE you have a Clean E-mail address( one not connected to porn, especially Zoo-porn, and doesn't track back to any of your dirty e-mail addresses), because any HR or hiring-authorized person WILL check that out.