NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (WFSB) – Normally family and friends help Brooke Burby and her 9 children with back-to-school clothes and gear, but this year she wanted to do something a little different.

The family has set up an ice cream stand and the money these children earn goes directly to school supplies.

“We go to the mall on Sundays after we’re done and they can go and pick out some things. So they all have a certain budget each week. We keep our receipts and they can see what was spent and what was earned each week.

Not only is their business unique, but their story is unique in itself.

After Brooke’s relationship with her ex-boyfriend ended a few years ago, she welcomed her 9 children.

“They are not biologically mine. I got custody about 4 years ago. These are my babies,” Brooke said.

Times weren’t always easy for Brooke.

“I had a salon but due to COVID we had to close. I had my salon for about 8 years,” Brooke said.

Yet after all the challenges life has thrown at her, she still manages to positively enlighten so many others, teaching her children how to budget, but also giving back to the community that she says has helped her. given so much.

“We will also donate it to the neighborhood. So anyone who doesn’t have uniforms or even clothes and school supplies, we’re also going to pay,” Brooke said.

The children love to go out and appreciate all the donations from the community.

“I’m thankful they’re giving away more than the ice cream total,” Christian Atkinson said.

Until the end of August, Brooke and her 9 children will be on the corner of Brook Street and Glenn selling ice cream.

She encourages you to stop by not only to help them, but also to give back to others who might be struggling.

Copyright 2022 WFSB. All rights reserved.