On Tuesday, October 19, Tryon Estates hosted an ice cream social fundraising event benefitting Steps to HOPE. In addition to monetary donations, residents and Tryon Estates donated food, supplies and new household items for use in the shelter as well as some gently used clothing, shoes and household items for Second Chance Thrift Store to sell.

The ice cream was all homemade and everyone had a fantastic time sampling the many different flavors and socializing with friends and neighbors. The volunteers had purple (the color of domestic violence awareness ribbons) shirts that said, “All you need is love and ice cream” with Steps to HOPE’s logo on one sleeve. We definitely felt the love! Over $1,000 dollars was raised and Steps to HOPE employees brought back a pickup truck and a van full of donations. One resident even made and donated a beautiful quilt!

The outpouring of generosity from Tryon Estates and the residents who participated in the ice cream social and from those who support us throughout the year is beyond special. From the staff at Steps to HOPE and Second Chance Thrift Store, the residents in our shelter, and the people in the community who receive services from Steps to HOPE we would like to extend our sincerest gratitude for the love and care we receive from them.

Steps to HOPE is the domestic violence and sexual assault shelter and advocacy center serving Polk County and Upstate SC. Please call 828-894-2340 for help, to get involved, or for general questions or information. 

Submitted by Paula Ravan / Photos by Rachel Ramsey