The Women’s Resource Center serving Newport and Bristol Counties (WRC), a nonprofit domestic violence intervention and prevention services agency, unveiled a new section of its decades-old “Pathway to Hope” brick walkway. The celebratory event was held on the agency’s newly renovated porch and throughout the grounds of its historic 114 Touro Street headquarters in Newport.
The evening’s celebration offered a chance for brick purchasers to see their brick placed within the walkway, as well as to meet with the staff supporting WRC’s mission. Over 900 bricks line the Pathway to Hope which was originally constructed in 1992 as part of a capital campaign focused on honoring women.
The porch, which had not been used for many years due to weather damage over time, was torn down over the past winter and completely rebuilt by Eshi Builders (Newport). The renovation allows for the front entrance to be accessed once again by the staff and public.
Attendees mixed and mingled as they enjoyed catered hors-d’oeuvres from Tom’s Market Catering (Warren), sampled wine from Newport Vineyards (Newport) and Greenvale Vineyards (Middletown), and beer from Newport Craft Brewing (Newport) served by bartenders from Two Gals Cocktails (Bristol). Chelley Knight & The Day Breaks (Newport) provided musical entertainment.
“Our ‘Pathway to Hope’ event was a lively and fun-filled evening to celebrate our donors and supporters,” states Lori DiPersio, executive director of the Women’s Resource Center. “The funds raised from our brick fundraiser helped to pave the way to comfort and safety for those affected by domestic violence in our communities. As it has for over 20 years, our ‘Pathway to Hope’ will continue to serve as a reminder of the remarkable and often brave journey that survivors have taken for years to come.”
Bricks remain available for purchase at $100 each by contacting Greg Thompson at (401) 236-8352 or gthompson@wrcnbc.org.