NATCHEZ &045; Many have mobilized to help Miss-Lou evacuees. And on Sunday, at least eight of those helping did so on four hooves.

Eight houses and more than 30 members and adult leaders of the Adams County Youth Rodeo Club came to the Steckler Building at Natchez High Sunday afternoon.

Their mission? To give the children displaced by last week’s hurricane &045; and even some parents &045; a chance to unwind by riding a horse, some of them for the very first time.

&uot;We’re just trying to entertain them. It’s a sad time, so we wanted to try and cheer them up,&uot; said Larry Hutchins, director of the club.

&uot;One thing about kids: You have to take time out for them,&uot; added Lionel Brown, the club’s president.

Although a few children riding horses Sunday on the shelter grounds were a bit shy at first, they soon warmed up to the idea, later summing up the experience as &uot;fun.&uot;

In addition, food such as hot dogs and sodas was served, and two inflatable &uot;space walks&uot; were located at the side of the shelter for those who weren’t into horseback riding.