TORCH has Brew Review, a beer-tasting fundraiser

A nonprofit organization that helps homeless people and low-income families has a new fundraiser, a Brew Review.

It’s a one-of-a-kind fundraiser for Trinity Out-­Reach Center for Hope, or TORCH. The Brew Review will be Friday, September 12, from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Historic Grove Theater located at 123 Randolph Road in Oak Ridge.

“The evening will include beer tasting, finger foods, silent auction, and live music,” a press release said. “Guests can mingle in the lobby with their food and beer, dance to live music in the auditorium, and bid on fantastic items in the silent auction.”

Beer is being provided by Cheeroke Distributing, Alliance Brewing Co., Yazoo, and Downtown Brewery, with more breweries to be announced closer to the event, the release said. Hard cider will also be available for those who cannot drink beer or would like to try something different.

The silent auction items include signed Lee Child and Tess Gerritsen books, a Jackie Collins autographed picture, gift cards, a Keurig Platinum K-Cup, gift baskets, crafts, a two-night stay in Pigeon Forge, and many other exciting items, the release said.

Tickets are $35 per person and include a souvenir tasting mug, beer, food, and admission. Tickets can be purchased at www.oakridgetorch.org/events or at TORCH during their business hours. You must be 21 or older to attend, and identification will be required at the door. All proceeds from the event will be used to further the TORCH mission of helping the low-income populations in the community become more self-sufficient. Ticket sales are limited, so “please plan to purchase your tickets soon!” the release said.

TORCH is a nonprofit organization in Oak Ridge that has been working with homeless and low–income individuals and families since July of 2012. In 2013, TORCH served more than 323 people, and 171 people were successfully housed using donated funds and grant money.

The programs at TORCH are aimed at giving homeless individuals and low-income populations the tools they need to be successful on their journey toward self-sufficiency, the press release said.

TORCH operates a literacy program, classroom tutoring for GED/high school equivalency, English as a second language, SPARK life skills classes, life coaching services, and employment help in addition to helping families secure permanent housing. If you are interested in sponsoring the event or have further questions, contact Melissa Freiderich (ensorma0@gmail.com) or Zabrina Minor (zabrina@oakridgetorch.org).