Jill MedingerAs Hurricane Helene approached Florida, many residents were forced to evacuate their homes, including horse owners seeking safe havens for their animals. Among the facilities that opened their doors to equine evacuees was the World Equestrian Center (WEC) in Ocala.
WEC, the country’s largest equestrian complex, has a history of providing shelter during hurricanes. In 2022, the facility accommodated nearly 3,000 horses, as well as other animals, during Hurricane Ian. This time, despite being primarily focused on equine evacuees, WEC once again offered their stalls free of charge.
Jessica Pye, a local rider who boards her horse at Wild Green Farm, was one of many who sought refuge at WEC. She traveled with eight horses to the facility, where she was grateful for the sturdy barns and the support of fellow evacuees. “I’m grateful that our horses can stay at the World Equestrian Center in their sturdy and enclosed barns,” Pye told Garden&Gun magazine. “And I’m grateful for amazing friends and family who never hesitate to help when it’s needed.”
In addition to providing shelter for horses, WEC also played a crucial role in the hurricane response. The facility housed Duke Energy linemen and provided space for their vehicles, demonstrating its commitment to the community.
While Hurricane Helene caused relatively minor damage to the Ocala area, the storm continued inland, leaving devastating aftermath in other parts of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. WEC’s efforts to provide shelter and support during this time were invaluable to the equine community.
Donate to the American Red Cross to help Hurricane Helene’s victims