The residents at the Center of Family Love (CFL) were smiling ear to ear last Thursday morning as they geared up to see their friends and family during the “Share the Love” driveby parade.

Due to the increased risk of serious complications from COVID-19 for individuals with disabilities, CFL has been closed to the public including family, volunteers and supporters since the beginning of March.

All residents have remained on campus or in their respective homes since that time.

The strict precautions proved necessary when two residents and three staff tested positive for COVID-19 back in May.

Since that time, no residents or CFL staff members have tested positive, but the serious threat remains.

When planning the “Share the Love” parade, all activities and ideas were executed with the residents’ safety in mind. All participants were required to wear a mask, not stop their vehicle and could not throw any candy or objects from their vehicle.

“The primary concern has always been the health and well-being of the incredible individuals we serve and that includes their emotional well-being,” said CFL President & CEO Debbie Espinosa. “For five months, our residents have not been able to see their loved ones and that can be detrimental. Since our residents aren’t able to go out in the community, the community came to us and showed just how much they love and care for CFL.”

Some 200 parade participants lined up along Sixth Street in Okarche to “share the love” by decorating their vehicles and motorcycles with signs, balloons and streamers to show support for CFL residents during this unprecedented time.

Residents also joined in on the fun by making their own signs for the parade.

“We love and miss our family!” “This lovebug can’t wait to hug you again!” and “God is in control” were just a few of the creative and personal signs made by CFL residents.

“The day was filled with unwavering joy, excitement and love that was so evident on not just the residents’ faces, but the faces of every parent or loved one in attendance,” Espinosa said.

Along with family and friends, the parade also consisted of some special supporters from the Okarche Police Department, Okarche Fire Depart-ment, Nortek Air Solutions Oklahoma Team and Rep. Mike Sanders.

When the residents thought the day could not get any better, it did, Espinosa said.

The parade had a few “celebrities” who could not wait until holiday time to see their friends again as Santa Claus and the Easter bunny came riding in on a shiny red Corvette convertible and a big red fire truck.

“Center of Family Love residents and staff, family members and friends had a day they will never forget due to the amount of love and happiness that was shared,” Espinosa said.