Farm event celebrates special needs community

Published 2:34 pm Tuesday, October 17, 2017

CHOCOWINITY — An estimated 200 children and adults with developmental disabilities, along with their families and caregivers, enjoyed a day on the farm Saturday during Eastern Antique Power Association’s annual event in Chocowinity.

“This is a free day of fun for these folks,” said Stan Hudson, a past EAPA president who hosted the event with his wife, Linda, at their Bear Creek Road home and showgrounds. “This is the fifth year we’ve done this.”

The county fair-type atmosphere included tractor rides, barrel train rides, an old-fashioned water pumping station, games, live musical entertainment and hayrides. In addition, members of the Grimesland Volunteer Fire Department were on hand to give tours of one of the department’s fire trucks.

Such treats as hot dogs, pizza, beverages, funnel cakes and homemade ice cream were also served up free of charge for the honored guests.

Dozens of local businesses and individuals contributed to making the day a success by providing goods, services and monetary donations, according to Hudson.

The event offered something for everyone, and attendees’ ages ranged from a 3-month-old infant to an 89-year-old senior citizen.

“We’ve got the whole spectrum here today,” noted Sandra Buckman, executive director of The Arc of Beaufort County. “It’s for the entire family; that makes it unique.”

Among the countless volunteers on hand were C.R. and Wendy Temple, who oversee Same Power Ministries in Chocowinity.

“We do a lot of nonprofit events like this one,” said C.R. Temple, taking a break from serving up piping hot funnel cakes.

The Temples, in fact, are also planning another special event slated for Dec. 2 at Festival Park on the Washington waterfront. They’re calling it “12/2 Shine the Light” and are targeting the tragedy of opioid addiction in this area.

“We’re going to shine the light of Jesus,” Temple said. “We’ll have free food, bands, guest speakers and support groups there.”

Temple said the street ministry will address peer pressure during the event, as well.

“Just come on out and bring a lawn chair or a blanket and enjoy it all day,” he said.

For more information about “12/2 Shine the Light,” contact the Temples at 252-402-0378.