Equine Rescuers Lose Everything

My name is Elizabeth Carr from Greensboro NC.  I am a Co - Founder and Financial Officer of the equine rescue Francis Florence and Friends, based out of Swansboro, NC. The past few days have been tremely rough for us, as we have battled the storm, that will become known as the "once in a lifetime" Hurricane Florence. Ironically named Francis Florence and Friends Equine Rescue, we are a registered 501c3 based in the beautiful little town of Swansboro NC. Shari and Eric Walker, run the physical location of the rescue along side Litteboro Farm.  We are a young organization, and have only been in existence for two years and although relatively new, we have helped many horses and mules from facing an unimaginable death. We rescue horses and mules from some of the worst neglect and abuse imaginable, and use them in ways to help others. Many of these animals have become permanent residents and help teach children to ride,as well as calm fears and sooth souls. If adoptable, we work with the animal and rehabilitate it and work to find loving forever homes. We currently have 30 equines in our care, as well as cows, chickens, pigs, sheep and a very opinionated house goat named Dink. Over the past three days, during a brutal and terrifying hurricane, Shari and Eric stayed right with the rescues, and literally put the equines needs first. While most people packed up and evacuated, Shari and Eric opted to stay with the herd, and ride out the storm. While they were able to secure all lives, and keep the animals safe, unfortunately, their home did not weather so well, nor did some of the fencing or shelters for the animals .Eric is an Ex Marine and proud Veteran. While he and Shari hunkered down in the their home, with the dogs, cats, and a goat named Dink, the whipping wind and torrential rain was to much for their house to take.
Shari and Eric need our help. They literally are the heart of the rescue and we could not function with out them.  They have lost almost everything and still have the responsibility of the animals that need daily care. Currently the rescue  needs help rebuilding for the animals and for Shari and Eric. We need supplies, medical and non medical for animals,the wet weather is extremely harsh on animals. We will be facing skin conditions, abscesses, and many other illnesses this weather and wetness brings.  We will need  extra feed, hay, portable and permanent fencing, fuel and equipment to begin clean up, to name a few immediate needs.They also know there is a good possibility the farm will be a holding station for lost and abandoned animals until their homes are found. Bad things happen to lost animals in this type of situation, so we are needing funds for those extra expenses as well. The plans to raise funds here, on the Go Fund Me site, and Shari and Eric use the rescue credit card for supplies and items they need. I will withdraw the funds from the Go Fund Me to our rescue bank  account, and pay the credit card.
Shari and Eric are tough as nails, but they need help too. They will need some funds for personal items. We feel that is the least the rescue can do for them. Also, we  need volunteers and boots on the ground. If you can, will you please help share our story, and help us continue to help the animals and help Shari and Eric that have given so much.
Elizabeth Carr
Founder
Francis Florence and Friends Equine Rescue
[email redacted]