Out here in rural Virginia, life moves at a different pace. The land stretches wide, the stars shine bright, and community still means something. That’s what makes Rock Island Farm so special. It’s not just a farm—it’s a place where people come together, where healing happens, and where something as simple as snuggling a bunny can brighten someone’s whole day.
A Farm with a Mission
Betsy and Dave Eves didn’t set out to run a typical farm. They wanted to build something meaningful—a space where people could reconnect with each other, slow down, and find joy in the small moments. For Dave, an Army veteran with three combat deployments, the farm became his new mission after leaving military life. For Betsy, an advocate for military caregivers and families, it was a way to take all the knowledge, resources, and ideas she’d gathered from national organizations and put them to work right here in rural Virginia.
Rock Island Farm isn’t just a business—it’s a social enterprise. That means every rabbit adoption, every farm event, and every snuggle session helps support their bigger mission: bringing joy, connection, and healing to veterans, caregivers, and families who need it most.
Bunny Breaks: Free Comfort for Military Families
For those who’ve served—or are still serving—the weight of military life isn’t always visible. That’s where Bunny Breaks come in. Partnering with national organizations like the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and Starbucks, Rock Island Farm brings their healing Holland Lop rabbits to schools, bases, and community spaces where military families can take a break—free of charge.
“There’s something about sitting down, holding a soft bunny, and just breathing for a moment,” Betsy says. “These events aren’t about fixing anything. They’re about reminding people they’re not alone.”
Whether it’s a military child dealing with the stress of a parent’s deployment or a veteran adjusting to civilian life, Bunny Breaks offer something simple, yet powerful: comfort. This year, Rock Island Farm is bringing Bunny Breaks to places like Buckingham County, Scottsville, Charlottesville, Roanoke, Virginia Beach, and Fort Belvoir, ensuring that military families in rural communities get the same support as those in big cities.
Snuggle Bunny Pop-Ups: A Way to Support the Mission
While Bunny Breaks are free for military families, Snuggle Bunny Pop-Ups are open to everyone—and they help keep the mission going. At these events, folks can purchase blocks of time to snuggle with Rock Island Farm’s adorable bunnies. Whether it’s a quick 10-minute cuddle or a longer, more relaxing visit, these pop-ups give people a chance to experience the magic of bunny therapy while supporting a farm that’s making a difference.
“You wouldn’t believe how many people come in stressed out and leave with a huge smile,” Betsy says. “It’s the best part of what we do.”
Local businesses, schools, and event organizers can book a pop-up or sponsor a session—giving their customers, employees, or students a chance to enjoy some bunny love while supporting Rock Island Farm’s bigger mission.
Adopt a Lop: More Than Just a Pet
For some, a few minutes with a bunny isn’t enough. That’s where Adopt a Lop comes in. Rock Island Farm raises and carefully places Holland Lop bunnies into loving homes, but it’s not just about pet adoption—it’s about making sure families are ready for the commitment.
“We’re not just handing out bunnies,” Betsy explains. “We’re making sure the match is right, that families understand what it takes to care for them, and that these rabbits get a safe, happy home.”
Each year, through their Healing with Holland Lops program, Rock Island Farm gifts bunnies and full setups to three military caregiving families, recognizing the comfort and companionship these animals can bring.
Bringing Something New to Rural Virginia
A lot of people think innovative ideas only happen in big cities. Rock Island Farm is proving them wrong. By taking national strategies and tailoring them for a rural community, Betsy and Dave are ensuring that small towns like Scottsville and Buckingham County don’t get left behind. Whether it’s through veteran support, military family programs, or simply creating a space where people feel welcome, they’re building something that belongs to everyone.
How You Can Be Part of It
Rock Island Farm isn’t just ours—it’s yours, too. Every snuggle, sponsorship, and adoption helps keep this mission going. Join us. For more details about these programs and to view the event calendar, visit
https://rockislandfarm.org.
Submitted by Betsy Eves
