Owner of Sur Jeudi, Ashley Banks opened her specialty children’s boutique on Poplar Street last November with the support of her husband Jamaal Washington. Since then, she has not only developed her retail store but has also used her store as a place for charitable giving. In December, she opened her doors as a drop off for Toys for Tots.

Recently, the Dorchester County Economic Development Office stopped by to visit Sur Jeudi and support Love Letters to Elders, their latest project. Banks said, “I just figured in this month of history – heart health and love – what better time to do something thoughtful for the elderly.”

This February, Banks decided to open her doors once again to show support for the elderly in the community. Children and adults were invited to come in and create a letter using Sur Jeudi’s craft table, or they could drop them off. The letters were delivered to local senior centers on Valentine’s Day.

Since many elderly people do not have access to email or communicate through technology, this was a tangible way to show support. Ashley and Jamaal are leading the way for new entrepreneurs in the community.