On Sunday, August 18, the Forsyth County Department of Social Services (FCDSS), in partnership with Crossnore Communities for Children, will host a free screening of the film “Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot.”

“Sound of Hope,” which hits theaters July 4, is inspired by a true story. The film follows Donna and Reverend WC Martin as they light a fire in the heart of their rural church to take in children from the foster care system that no one else would. By doing the impossible – adopting 77 children – this East Texas congregation proved that the battle for America’s most vulnerable can be won with real, determined love.

Moviegoers will also receive free popcorn and a soft drink with their ticket. A panel discussion will follow the film. There will also be other resources on-site with information about adoption, according to Torrie Smith, director of the FCDSS foster home licensing division.

“We want to give everyone in the community the opportunity to watch this film about us and learn more about foster care,” Smith said. “If this film touches you deeply and you want to learn more, professionals from DSS and Crossnore are available to help.”

There are currently about 200 children enrolled in the Forsyth County Foster Care Program. Smith said if they could get just one family to open their doors, the event would be a success.

“We hope that by watching this film and understanding the need in Forsyth County, we would be great even if we found a home. We need more than one, but if we get just one, we will be happy to recruit someone to be a foster parent.”

“The film provides a great opportunity to educate the public about the reality of foster care and the critical need for foster and adoptive families,” said Brett Loftis, CEO of Crossnore. “With this screening, we hope to harness the emotional impact of Possum Trot’s true story while also providing our public with resources and support for foster and adoptive families.”

Pre-registration is required to attend the screening. To register, go to bit.ly/SoundofHopeMovie. A panel discussion will take place following the screening.