$13K Raised To Help 'Save The Ice Cream' At Gabriel's Fountain

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — The Bridgewater community came out in full force and raised just over $13,000 to support Gabriel's Fountain after their three freezers broke down putting their beloved ice cream in jeopardy.

The freezers started acting up on Jan. 5 and after hearing of the restaurant's troubles Kristen Barber of Martinsville and a regular customer of Gabriel's started a GoFundMe fundraiser on June 10.

The GoFundMe had a goal of $1,000 but it increased to $20,000 after Alex Alb, owner of the restaurant and ice cream shop at 1948 Washington Valley Rd., shared in a Patch article about the true costs for replacement and repairs.

After the Bridgewater Patch article was published the donations came pouring in. Alb said he was "definitely surprised" and a bit overwhelmed but such a strong community response.

"Initially the GoFundMe goal was $1,000 and I thought maybe there was a chance we would get close to that. When the goal was increased to $20,000 I did not think we were even going to pass $3,000," said Alb. "So yeah it has been a huge, huge surprise and it is very flattering. Almost embarrassing."

As of Monday, all three freezers have been "temporarily" repaired and are running, but Alb is not sure for how much longer.

"I don't want to say they are a ticking time bomb but it is not good. We are looking into long-term solutions. We are trying to figure the next step," said Alb.

Taking into account the generous donations from the community, Alb said they will apply some of the funds towards paying off the repairs and then have to figure out whether to invest in new equipment or maybe donating the money back to the community.

"I'm blushing. I'm flattered," Alb said of the community's support. "This kind of brings the realization that something needs to be done. So much has been entrusted to us with this $13,000. We need to figure out what is the responsible thing to do."

To learn more about the fundraiser or to donate click here. For more information about Gabriel's Fountain visit gabrielsfountain.com or Facebook or Instagram.

• Read more: 'Save The Ice Cream': Customers Rally Behind Gabriel's Fountain

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here. Don't miss local and statewide announcements. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.