Disabilities Resources launched its annual Pumpkin Patch Saturday with more than a thousand pumpkins.

DRI houses residents with developmental disabilities and its mission is “to provide exceptional care and contented lives to intellectually challenged adults in a Christian environment.”

Bob Cowin and his family ride the DRI hayride. (Photo by Lydia Lawson)

The pumpkin patch, DRI’s biggest fundraiser, features photo opportunities, a hayride, story time and pumpkins on sale, for 75 cents to $24.

Joel Paris, DRI activities director, said they “get three semi-truck loads full of pumpkins” delivered to them on site. All the pumpkins range from the size of the hand to the size of big watermelon. Paris also said that since this is a fundraiser, “the profits vary from year to year.”

Volunteers like Susan Throckmorton help sell the pumpkins. Throckmorton said she has a wonderful time selling pumpkins and “interacting with the kids.” 

Not only are Abilene residents and volunteers enjoying the patch, but local college students and former students purchased pumpkin as well. Victoria Spooner, junior psychology major from Houston, said, “It is a good setup and a good spot to take pictures.” Nicole Davis, former ACU student, said, “It is the first day of October, and this is the perfect way to celebrate it.”

The next biggest day besides opening day is Halloween. Kids are encouraged to come out and take pictures in their costumes and interact with the residents of DRI.

The patch will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays. The patch is located at 3602 North Clack Street, just North of I-20. Cash and card are accepted for payment.