In a world where the start of foster care often feels cold and uncertain, Isaiah 117 House offers something remarkably different: warmth, comfort, and a sense of home on a child's most difficult day. And thanks to the heart and hustle of local residents, this mission was front and center during the 2025 Lemonade Stand Challenge Weekend held July 18–20.

This marked the fourth year Robertson County has taken part in the national effort, and it was their biggest year yet. Twenty-seven stands popped up around the community—hosted by businesses, churches, small groups, and families—all selling lemonade and spreading awareness about what Isaiah 117 House does: provide a safe, loving space for children waiting to be placed in foster care.

“These children often arrive with nothing, feeling scared, lonely, hungry, and dressed in dirty clothing,” said Misty Romero, Director of the Robertson County Isaiah 117 House. “We offer them a safe, warm, and welcoming place with clean clothes, a warm meal, toys, and comfort—most importantly, love.”

Since opening its doors in December 2023, the local Isaiah 117 House has already welcomed nearly 250 children through its signature red doors. But this work isn’t done alone. Community support is the heartbeat of everything they do—and the Lemonade Stand Challenge is proof.

In total, the weekend connected with 1,215 people and raised an incredible $20,815. That’s right—over $20,000 through lemonade! Every cup poured and dollar raised helps children feel safe, valued, and cared for during what is often the most traumatic day of their lives.

Among the many young participants was 11-year-old Ella Hollingsworth, who hosted a stand for the second year in a row. “It’s not about the lemonade or the money raised, but more about spreading awareness of Isaiah 117 House,” Ella shared. “It was an honor to help spread the news about their cause by serving cups of lemonade.”

Local Standout Moments:

• Best Stand Design: White House Area Chamber of Commerce for the “cutest stand we’ve ever seen!”
  
  
• Most Community Engagement: MartinRea with 111 stand visitors.
  
  
• Most Awareness Raised: Southern Roots Properties, raising an impressive $2,762.
  
  

“This was our 4th year of Lemonade Stand Challenge Weekend, and our local home in Robertson County was blessed with 27 stands,” said Romero. “God is SO BIG!”

This year’s challenge was part of a growing national movement that began in 2017 when a group of children in East Tennessee raised $7,000 through lemonade stands to support the first Isaiah 117 House. Since then, the ripple effect has been astonishing—more than 1,000 stands in 2025 alone, reaching over 7,800 people and raising $750,000 to help children in 58 locations across 13 states.

Looking Ahead: 50 Stands for 2026?

The Robertson County Isaiah 117 team is already dreaming about next year, with a big, bold goal: 50 lemonade stands across the county.

“We would love to partner with your church, small group, business, or organization to discuss how you can get involved,” said Romero. “Imagine if every church hosted a stand after service—what an amazing impact that would make!”

They’re even floating fun ideas like a Battle of the Banks or a Realtors’ Red Door Rally to add friendly competition and even more community involvement.

“We truly could not do what we do without you—our volunteers, donors, and stand hosts,” Romero said. “Let’s work together to change the way foster care begins for the children of our community.”

To get involved, send Misty & her team an email.

Because together, we can change the way foster care begins.