Caption: Erika Nolley, front left, and Amanda Lovette pose with Rowland-Norment Elementary students and staff members as they take a photo with Santa Claus during a Christmas event on Friday at First Baptist Church in Lumberton.
LUMBERTON — Squeals of excitement could be heard and smiles could be seen Friday during a Christmas event held at a local church for children with special needs.
Students with special needs in Public Schools of Robeson County elementary schools were in attendance at the event held at First Baptist Church on North Walnut Street in Lumberton.
Children sang Christmas carols, made crafts, had lunch, and enjoyed gifts along with a visit from Santa Claus.
The Rev. Tim Little, who serves as the church’s music minister, could be seen leading Christmas carols.
“It’s one of the highlights of my year,” said Little, who also serves as the Fund Development Director at Robeson County Partnership for Children.
The event was made possible through a collaborative effort between multiple community organizations.
Erika Nolley and Amanda Lovette, who also work at RCPC, planned the event. Kiwanis of Robeson Lumberton provided funding to make the event possible and First Baptist Church members agreed to host the event in their facility.
“I was a prior EC teacher so I’m just very passionate about working with children with special needs,” Nolley said.
Lumberton High School Beta Club and National Honor Society members also volunteered their time to serve at the event.
Typically, similar Christmas events for children with special needs are hosted in the church’s facility each year.
“We are so grateful for community partners who support our students and provide extra special Christmas cheer during the holiday season! Our children always look forward to these events and they will never forget how special these events make them feel,” said PSRC Chief Communications Officer Jessica Sealey.
“On behalf of the Public Schools of Robeson County, I would like to thank everyone who made this special event possible,” Sealey added.