WS Chronicle

On Sunday, Aug. 18, the Forsyth County Department of Social Services (FCDSS) is partnering with Crossnore Communities for Children to offer a free screening of the movie “Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot.”

Released on July 4, “Sound of Hope,” which is directed by Joshua Weigel, is inspired by a true story. The movie follows Donna and Revered W.C. Martin as they ignite a fire in the hearts of their rural church to embrace kids in the foster system that nobody else would take. By doing the impossible – adopting 77 children – this East Texas community proved that with real, determined love, the battle for America’s most vulnerable can be won.

Along with their ticket,  movie goers will also receive free popcorn and a soft drink. Following the movie there will be a panel discussion. According to Torrie Smith, FCDSS foster home licensing supervisor, there will also be other resources on site with information on adoption.

“We want to give an opportunity for anyone in the community to come and view this movie on us and it also gives them an opportunity to learn more about fostering,” Smith said. “Should this movie tug at your heartstrings and you want to learn more, there will be professionals from DSS and Crossnore on hand.”

Currently there are about 200 children registered in the Forsyth County Foster Care Program. Smith said if they can just get just one family to open their doors, the event will be a success.

“We’re hoping that by watching this film and realizing the need in Forsyth County, even if we get one home, that will be great. We need more than one, but if we only get one, we will be happy to recruit someone to foster.”

“The film provides a powerful opportunity to educate the community about the realities of foster care and the urgent need for foster and adoptive families,” said Brett Loftis, Crossnore’s chief executive officer. “By hosting this screening, we want to leverage the emotional impact of the true story of Possum Trot, while also connecting our community to resources and support for fostering and adopting.”

Advance registration is required to attend the screening. To register, go to bit.ly/SoundofHopeMovie. A panel discussion will follow the film screening.