Heather and Ed Fragata are the proud owners of Helger's Ice Cream Shoppe, a longtime fixture in Tiverton, Rhode Island. The ice cream stand, a local landmark since the 1980’s, has a rich history that dates back to Heather's great-grandfather, who originally ran a fruit stand on the same spot in the 1950s. Over the decades, the business evolved through the hands of her grandfather Norman Helger, her father, Norman Junior, and now Heather, making her the fourth generation to carry on the family tradition. 

The Helger family are widely known for their entrepreneurial activities in Tiverton. Heather’s cousins and their families own farm stands, landscaping businesses, oil companies, excavating companies, a fish market, and a turkey farm — all descended from her grandfather’s 14 or 15 siblings.  

Heather took over the business from her parents two years ago, driven by a deep sense of nostalgia and a strong desire to preserve her family's legacy. “I didn't want to see anyone else take it over,” she shared. Her daughter, Isabelle, who has worked at the shop for eight years, and is a rising senior at UMass Dartmouth, is currently the business manager and social media wizard, managing accounts on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok, bringing a modern marketing twist to the traditional family business. 

The menu serves local flavor

At Helger's, the ice cream menu is a curated collection of New England's finest flavors. Some customer favorites include coffee Oreo, coconut almond bar, mocha chip, and chocolate peanut butter cup. Heather is particularly proud of their unique offerings like the fat Elvis, which features a banana base with a peanut butter swirl and pound cake bits. The Tiver-cone crunch and PVD crumbling bridge add a playful touch to the lineup. 

Under Heather's leadership, Helger's Ice Cream has expanded its menu to include specialty sundaes and frappes. These creations add a layer of creativity and excitement to the business. The peanut butter extreme sundae, a towering confection of ice cream, hot fudge, peanut butter sauce, and Reese's treats, is a top seller that delights hungry or curious patrons. 

Heather's emphasis on fun and family extends to her staff, many of whom are friends of her children. This close-knit team creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere for customers. The shop's vibrant vibe, adorned with neon signs proclaiming “Ice Cream Solves Everything,” invites visitors to enjoy a nostalgic New England ice cream experience. 

As the seasons change, Helger's doesn't just close its doors. Heather's cousin, Cody Helger, keeps the Helger’s entrepreneurial spirit rolling by selling Christmas trees in the shop's parking lot during the holiday season, helping ensure the Helger name remains a constant in the community. 

Located at 2490 Main Road, Tiverton, Helger's Ice Cream is more than just a dessert destination — it's a testament to family, tradition, and the joy of sharing sweet treats. When you go, try the peanut butter extreme sundae made with your choice of two scoops of ice cream, hot fudge, peanut butter sauce, crushed Reese's cups, Reese's Pieces, whipped cream, chocolate drizzle and a full size peanut butter cup on the top — Heather suggests you try it with chocolate peanut butter cup ice cream.