GORDON, Neb. - A new hurricane relief effort aims to get people across north-central and northwestern Nebraska involved in helping people in the Carolinas devastated by Hurricane Helene.

“Even though it’s been dry, we’re so blessed out here. We have so much, and they have nothing. We decided that we need to do something bigger,” said Gary Ruse.

Ruse, along with Casey Walton, is spearheading the initiative, which kicks off Monday, Oct. 21. First National Bank in Gordon has donated the former Gordon Auto Sales building at 2044 US Highway 20 as the collection site. A 53-foot trailer has also been secured to transport the donations to a warehouse in Easley, South Carolina, where supplies will be distributed.

“In addition to supplies, we could really use monetary donations, not just for the victims, but we will need to pay the truck driver,” said Walton.

A Hurricane Relief Fund has been set up at First National Bank in Gordon for financial contributions.

Walton noted that donations of livestock feed, including hay and oats, have already started coming in.

“I would like the trailer to be packed half full with livestock food and the other half with supplies,” said Walton.

Here’s a look at the requested items from hurricane victims:

· Five Gallon Buckets

· Cleaning Supplies

· Bleach

· Trash Bags (13 Gallon and/or Contractor Bags)

· Plastic Sheeting/Tarps

· Heavy Duty Work Gloves

· Paper Towels

· Sports Drinks (Powered Packets)

· Hydration Packs (Powder Form)

· Non-perishable Food

· Baby Wipes

· Diapers (Children and Adults)

· Baby Formula

· Bug Spray

· Sunscreen

· Plastic Utensils

· Disposable Plates

· Toilet Paper

· Manual Can Openers

· Toothbrushes

· Toothpaste

· Toiletries/Sanitation Items

· Feminine Hygiene Products

· Pet Food (Dog and Cat)

· Sanitizer Wipes

· Hand Sanitizer

· Socks (All Sizes, Unopened Package)

· Small Heaters

· Small Tents

· Blankets and Sleeping Bags

· Flashlights and Batteries

· Battery operated radios

· Pillows

· Livestock Feed

· First Aid Kits

· Water

· Soft Drinks

· Cleaning Supplies

· Generator

· Duct Tape

· Scissors

· Portable Chargers

· Travel size contact solution/pain relievers/antacids etc...

"It's already getting cold in some of the areas where they don't have electricity, so they could really use supplies to stay warm," said Walton.

Donations can be dropped off starting Monday, Oct. 21. For more information, contact Gary Ruse at 308-360-1296 or Casey Walton at 308-207-5709.