(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY) If you grew up in Saratoga Springs, you know the Grasso’s Italian Ice Truck. It’s been a staple of summer in the Spa City for generations. But now the truck hopes the same people it brought smiles and delicious treats to for over 70 years can give back and help out in times of need.
“70 years does a lot of damage to a vehicle,” says Ralph Grasso, third-generation owner. “It’s a 1954 International Harvester Step Van. It’s the old, typical milk truck.”
Grasso recently set up a GoFundMe page to raise money to restore the truck. He says it still runs, but isn’t in top shape. Quite the opposite. It needs a new coat of paint, new tires, brake lines and body work. He particularly points out the numerous dents on the “curb side” of the truck.
“My grandfather had a very close relationship with telephone poles,” laughs Grasso. “He parked too close or something like that. That’s why there are a lot of dents on the curb side.”
Grasso’s Italian Ice has been on hiatus for the past few years; other commitments have kept Grasso from dedicating the time needed to the business. But he says he’s ready to start again, and to do that, he needs the iconic truck!
“People come to me and even today they only say two words: ‘I remember.’ It’s all about their childhood,” says Grasso.
The estimated cost of the truck is around $30,000. So far, $5,200 has been raised. Grasso hopes that with a little help, the truck can get back on the road where it belongs.
“The truck has done 180,000 miles. So it’s driven around the world 7.5 times. I hope we don’t get an excise tax!” He laughs.
If you would like to donate to the restoration of Grasso’s Italian Ice Truck, click on the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-revive-saratogas-iconic-grassos-italian-ice-truck
