Esther's helping hand: Fundraising market for women in need a success
Esther's Place kicked off their first vintage and artisan market at the fairgrounds on Saturday May 4, 2024, raising money with the help of local artists and business. Single mothers, homeless veteran women, and women in recovery all have a safe space right here in Bulloch County. Read more about what the non-profit is doing for the community and check out some moments from today's 'Esther in the Boro' market.
Lori Brent, a Co-Director for Esther’s Place in Statesboro, thanked the Kiwanis Club and local media platforms for their support in making today’s vintage and artisan market a success.
The first ‘Esther in the Boro’ market on Saturday May 4, 2024, hosted over 90 vendors and food trucks, and welcomed hundreds of supporting customers. The entry donation of $3 dollars and the vendor booth fees are being used to fund the work of the Christian, women’s serving non-profit that provides community based support, guidance in faith, and essential hygiene services like laundry washing and showers, for women in need.
Live stream walk through of the event with Grice Connect's Lori Grice
“Our mission is to empower women to thrive, not just survive,” Brent said. Just a few hours into the event, Brent was blown away by the turnout and participation of the community; a community that she says has a great need for the services provided by Esther’s Place.
Brent said she has been surprised by the number of homeless college students and women living out of their cars with children. By providing meals, clothes, personal care items, support groups and more, Esther’s Place is giving Bulloch County women who are in need, a safe space.
Entering 'Esther in the Boro': photo by Lori Grice Founders and Co-Directors Lori Brent (left) and Tanya Wright greet attendees of the 'Esther in the Boro' market at the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair Grounds. Photo by Lori Grice AJ (right) is a highschool senior who preserves and crafts insects like butterflies and beetles into unique pieces of art. photo by Lori Grice
Lilly Norris is behind the "Gypsy Jewels" creating unique jewelry, with some reworked vintage pieces. Photo by Ainslie Smith These ladies are entering the free raffle for the hat in the suede picture. photo by Lori Grice Shoppers browsed decorated stalls full of antiques and vintage finds. photo by Lori Grice Charlie's Funky Junk Shop displayed their inventory of antiques and trinkets at the 'Esther in the Boro' market. photo by Lori Grice Melissa Sharp spins wool yarn from the American Tunis sheep she raises on her family farm in Bulloch County. photo by Ainslie Smith
Decor and More: Hand crafted items, clothes and trinkets found their homes with customers at the artisan market.
Find more information about Esther's Place in this Grice Connect story, and find out how you can contribute to their mission on their webpage.
