Saturday night, August 17, 2024, was a night of socializing, food, fun, and fundraising. Esther’s Place, a local nonprofit that helps women in need in Bulloch County, hosted their third annual Esther’s Night Out Barn Dance fundraiser from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. This is the largest fundraiser for the organization and tons of fun for guests.

The event was held at Pine Needle Plantation, an impressive 7,000 square foot venue located between Bulloch and Candler counties. Guests dined, socialized, danced, and bid on silent auction items donated by over 60 local businesses. Over 25 sponsors participated in the fundraiser, making it the most successful and beneficial event for Esther’s Place.

Before the event Anastasia Abramenko from Anastassia Ballroom offered free line dancing lessons at Connection Church to prepare participants for dancing.

On the evening of the event, guests arrived in cowboy hats, vests and boots, ready to show off their newly learned dance moves. Madison Leigh Photography captured memories as attendees laughed, chatted and danced the night away.

Esther’s Place, co-founded by friends Lori Brent And Tanya Wrightsupports women in need in Statesboro and the surrounding area. They provide clothing, shoes, accessories, hygiene products and haircuts to women and their children. Most recently, they opened their doors to victims of Hurricane Debby and offered showers to those affected by the storm.

Brent And Wright told us at the beginning of the year that they remain committed to their goal in solidarity.

“The greatest thing for us”, Wright says: “It’s about sharing the love of Jesus and empowering women to feel good and loved.”

“There is no judgement here. It doesn’t matter, we all have a story. Some are better and some are worse, but we all have a story.” Brent says about the women that Esther’s Place cares for. “We love them just the way they are.”

For more information about Esther’s Place or to donate items or services, visit the organization’s website or call 912-225-6583.