Evelyn Adams and David “Rocky” Barlett haven’t had your typical love story. For the last three years, they’ve called a wooded homeless community in Florida home while hoping to one day marry and have a roof over their heads.
They’d already been through plenty of hardships, but the longtime couple had something to celebrate when they finally tied the knot after 22 years together.
It all started when police officer Daniel McDonald, who works as a liaison for the homeless, spread the word about the duo.
Evelyn and Rocky first lived together in Kenton, Ohio, spending the nights with family and friends, but moved to Florida in hopes of finding work. Unfortunately, the pair didn’t have much luck. They lived under a bridge for six months before setting up camp in the woods of South Tampa, where they’ve resided for the past three years. Without a home, the couple could never afford the $93.50 needed for a marriage license
As their story spread, the owner of Cross Creek Ranch offered to let the Barletts use the venue free of charge for their wedding. Soon other community members were chipping in, offering the Barletts a wedding dress, tuxedo, limo, and honeymoon stay at a Hilton hotel.
“It was a Cinderella story,” Evelyn told ABC News. “It was the happiest moment of my and Rocky’s life. I was breathless.”
Nancy Spooner, director of weddings for Cross Creek Ranch, admitted that her job would have been impossible if it were not for the help of people in the community.
“We didn’t do this all ourselves,” Spooner said. “When we started making calls to caterers, photographers, florists, and other vendors — before we could finish asking them for stuff, they were already ready to donate. They were like, ‘You need a cake? You got it!’ Or ‘You need rings? They’re on the way.’”
“It has been so moving to see how excited they are, and it has been as much a gift for our staff, myself, my husband, and our staff as much as it is for them,” said Bonnie McSharry, owner of the Cross Creek Ranch.
During the ceremony, the Barletts were joined by their friends and guests. Major James Hall, area commander at The Salvation Army of Tampa/Hillsborough County, officiated the wedding. Along with that, their dog, Princess, attended and acted as a flower girl. She wore her collar covered with flowers for this special occasion. Richard Walsh, who is a friend of Evelyn and Rocky, walked Rocky down the aisle. Walsh has lived in Tampa with the couple at the same homeless camp for almost three years.
“I met Evelyn and Rocky in 2013. They are the two most caring people I have ever met,” said Walsh.
Lastly, the couple received a key to their new place and moved in. Homemakers of Hope donated all of the furniture and furnishings. The couple truly got their fairytale ending.
“Words cannot describe how grateful were are for Officer McDonald and the people who did this for us,” said Evelyn.
Source: AWM