Physically challenged children get chance at deer hunting

For the next two months, thousands of Southeast Texas hunters will head to the woods .. looking for deer.

For a handful of hunters, this weekend's hunt might have been impossible if not for the help of "Acts Two Remember" outdoors ministry.

Tom Wright explains.

Like many hunters, Rex Simmons is thinking about what will happen this weekend..quiet moments in the deer blind..a clean shot..a trophy deer.

Simmons says, "these are the gun racks we use with the children."

But it won't be Rex taking the shot. it will be a physically challenged child using this rack that absorbs the rifle recoil.

Simmons says, "our hunters are more comfortable shooting that way when they can't take the full recoil of the rifle itself. We are able to give them some assistance there to help them make a more sure shot and hopefully harvest some animals."

Rex simmons overseas Acts 2 Remember Outdoor Mininstries. "We got an area here with some benches around it and at night with a roaring fire, kids gathering around, parents gathered around, and, uh, weenie roast going on, marshmallows and all of those things that is simple things, but it's great fun."

It's mission: to provide hunting opportunities for physically disabled or terminal ill children and disabled veterans.

Rex has organized and raised money for previous units in Alabama and South Texas. This year, he's teamed up with Indians Springs camp, just north of Kountze.

"First thing Friday morning, day light breaks, will have hunters in stands, wait for the elusive trophy to come in."

The kids will spend three nights at the camp...accompanied by a parent.

"They'll be in there. their parent will be in here and the guide. it's a fully guided hunt."

Friday and Saturday...they'll hunt in hopes of harvesting a deer.

"We're all equals in the great outdoors. no one's in a wheelchair. we're all hunting. and we're all reaching for the same goal."

Rex Simmons and his volunteers only provide this opportunity for a few kids or veterans at a time...that's all time, money and resources will allow. But he says what happens here is bigger than just dreams of taking an animal.

"Tears flowing. it's hearts pouring out. it's friendships made."

In Hardin County, Tom Wright, KFDM Six News.

If you know someone who wants to apply for the hunt or would like to help, you can get more information by visiting www.acts2remember.net