When disaster strikes, it doesn’t just impact homes and infrastructure—it affects the most vulnerable members of our communities, including our beloved animals. Since Sunday (10/6), our committed rescue team has been working around the clock in North Carolina, driven by a mission of compassion. As we wrap up our heroic efforts in Georgia, we have answered the urgent call from North Carolina to assist in life-saving Animal Search and Rescue (ASAR) operations. Together with our partners at ASAR Training and Response, we are making a difference—one animal, one life at a time.
Overcoming Challenges, Saving Lives
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our team is navigating some of the toughest conditions imaginable. Communication blackouts and blocked access routes have made it nearly impossible for many communities to reach the help they so desperately need. But through it all, we press forward. Despite these challenges, our teams remain undeterred, relying on radios and satellite systems to connect with local agencies.
The devastation from Helene—making landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Florida and wreaking havoc across Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky—has left its mark on the Southeast. But we are determined to continue to bring hope, relief, and critical aid to the animals and people who need us most.
Heartfelt Impact Across Communities
Yesterday alone, our rescue teams worked alongside six other partner organizations to reach countless animals and their caretakers. Split into two groups, we touched 54 communities across three counties.
Every pound of food delivered, and every pet saved carries a story—of resilience, of survival, and of hope. Today, we delivered 3,000 pounds of dog food (providing 9,600 meals) and 1,150 pounds of cat food (enough for 12,190 meals), along with over 220 essential pet care items.
We also worked closely with local law enforcement, fire departments, animal control agencies, and sheltering services to ensure that resources reach those who need them most.
Looking to the Future: Standing Ready for More
Our mission will not end with Hurricane Helene. As we continue our life-saving work in North Carolina, we are also preparing for what lies ahead. Hurricane Milton is fast approaching, and we are already putting contingency plans in place to provide critical resources for both North Carolina and the communities soon to be impacted in Florida.
With federal emergency declarations across multiple states and the situation evolving rapidly, we remain steadfast in our commitment to rescue, care, and protect.
A Call to Compassion
Stay tuned for more updates on our rescue efforts, and thank you for standing with us as we bring light to the darkest days for so many.
You can be part of our critical work by donating to support our rescue efforts.
The post A Lifeline in the Storm: Our North Carolina Animal Rescue Efforts Following Hurricane Helene appeared first on American Humane.
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