Photo by Felix Mizioznikov/Adobe StockDespite sparse coverage on national news, the devastation left in Hurricane Helenes wake is unimaginable, according to those with boots on the ground in North Carolina. According to military and government personnel, due to the storms extensive damage, rescue and relief efforts will continue for weeks and months as they attempt to aid people and animals stranded in the wake of this recent storm, especially those in rural, mountain towns.One of my little riding lesson students once said that making new friends at the barn is really easy, because horse people are just different. And as an adult, I cant agree with her more. Equestrians are a different breed, and when our fellow horse lovers or their beloved animals are in need of help, our community is always ready to help. So heres what you need to know:First and Foremost: Civilians, Please Stay Home!Government officials, military leaders, are insisting that civilians stay out of affected areas, including Asheville, Boone, and Candor. It has continued to rain in many of the heavily affected areas since the start of the storm, so the water hasnt had time to recede. Access to many of the small, rural, mountain towns is impossible by motor vehicle; many affected areas are currently only accessible by air due to washed out roadways or landslides. There have also been episodes of violence upon relief workers and people bringing food or supplies into the area because the people stranded in these mountain areas are getting very desperate. Civilians who want to help should not attempt to enter these areas. Trained professionals like police and members of the military need to be able to do their jobs, and untrained civilians trying to help end up doing more harm than good. They block roadways, and often get themselves into situations that they need rescued from, taking time and resources from rescue efforts.The Best Way to Help is with Your WalletIn these first days, rescue efforts are focused mainly on human lives and in reality, animals can only receive the care theyneed if their humans also have their most basic necessities met.But animal and equine rescue organizations are mobilizing, and these organizations will be working for weeks and months ahead.Currently, the best way to help is to donate.Here are some organizations that will be in desperate need of financial support in the coming days, weeks, and months ahead: American Red Cross North Carolina: In order for animals to get the care and help that they need, their humans need to be safe as well. To make a financial donation, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767), text HELENE to 90999, or donate online. Operation Airdrop ensures that essential supplies reach those in need when ground transportation is compromised. For more information about Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts, visit here. ASAR (Animal Search and Rescue) is staged in Statesville and providing immediate relief for animals in the mountains. Visit here to help. Fleet of Angels is an equine-specific rescue organization that is currently organizing vets, equine supplies, and relief for horses. To help equines affected by Hurricane Helene, donate to the most urgent need or natural disaster fundhere. The Humane Society of the United States is also in action in the Southeast, supporting animals. Please visithereto donate.The post Hurricane Helene Relief: Donations Needed for Human, Equine, and Other Animal Aid appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.