The terminology Noah’s Ark might conjure up familiar scenes for most, but Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary in Locust Grove, is much more than a vessel packed to the brim with animals two-by-two.

Located on a sprawling 250 acres, Noah’s Ark exists to provide shelter and nourishment. The center has also been home to more than 400 adoptable children since it opened in 1990.

Allison Hedgecoth, a faithful volunteer turned employee, knows firsthand how valuable of a resource the sanctuary is but beneath the surface of the beautiful lands, thousands of animals and smiling children, there is a greater need in store.

“When people visit Noah’s Ark, they see a beautiful welcome center, manicured landscaping and expansive animal habitats,” she said. “Many people think we have plenty of money, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Most people would never know that many times we barely have enough money to meet the payroll at the end of the week, but God always comes through.”

The needs at Noah’s Ark are innumerous, said Hedgecoth, and if one were to look at the sanctuary’s home page, they would see them listed, with accompanying pictures, at the bottom of the page.

Residents can sponsor an animal at whichever price point they are comfortable with, donate towards a new habitat for Zuri, a white Bengal tiger, or buy various odds and ends for the animals.

These include big rubber balls for the bigger cats, bungie balls for the primates, tires for the bears or purchase a calendar with pictures from various animals within the center.

Hedgecoth said everyone can help, in whatever way they can.

“No matter where you live, how old you are, or how much money you have, everybody can do something to help animals,” she said. “If possible, please donate, either financially or in-kind donations, volunteer, and if you can’t do either of those, simply spread the word about Noah’s Ark.”

Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary is at 712 LG Griffin Road.

Information: (770) 957-0888 or www.noahs-ark.org.