ST. LOUIS — The Animal Protective Association (APA) of Missouri is stepping up to the plate by helping a North Carolina animal shelter devastated by Hurricane Helene.
It comes as the death toll reaches nearly 200 people across the southeastern portion of the United States.
Officials said the French Broad River flooding has severely impacted Marshall, North Carolina, a town of nearly 800. It has left local animal shelters like the Madison County Animal Services in Marshall without adequate resources to care for their animals.
The APA in Brentwood is expecting six cats and four dogs Thursday. The shelter in St. Louis County said the number could be more than that.
The animals are coming from a shelter that has no power or water which has made it difficult for them to care for the animals. No one owned them; they were simply inside the shelter at the time of the hurricane.
The effort is a partnership with the BISSELL Pet Foundation to ensure animals get the proper care and resources.
The APA said because of the influx of animals they're helping, their Brentwood and Olivette locations will be waiving their adoption fees through Oct. 7 for all pets including the cats and dogs from North Carolina.
They're also urging people to donate to the Madison County Animal Services in Marshall where the animals came from to help them get back on their feet.
"Our hearts go out to the people and pets affected by Tropical Storm Helena," said Sarah Javier, President & CEO of APA. "The devastation caused by this flooding is truly heartbreaking. While we always prioritize animals in our community, we're committed to doing everything we can to support the animals and shelters impacted by this disaster. Every animal deserves safety and care, especially during such challenging circumstances. We're grateful for our partnership with BISSELL Pet."