Good morning, Providence.

The West End Community Center food pantry normally serves about 2,700 families and seniors each month—recent counts show new families have more than doubled amid growing food insecurity.

Volunteers Jaylan Martinez and Alva Guarrano help residents fill bags with food as the center works to meet the rising demand.

In July, nonprofit Stages of Freedom enrolled 290 children in free swim lessons after local news highlighted water safety but now owes YMCAs $23,000 and is raising funds to pay its bills—founder Ray Rickman said the organization will work to raise $1,000 daily to cover costs and continue teaching low-income children.

Food shortages are rising in our state as many families struggle with higher prices, ending pandemic aid and upcoming federal cuts.

Local centers report that 144,000 people will lose SNAP benefits soon and long lines at pantries show a growing need—experts say the crisis is set to worsen.

Community organizations help many Rhode Island residents who struggle with changes in federal policies, and Progreso Latino—found in operation since 1977—offers key services like education, food help, and immigration support.

Local groups work with leaders to build trust and support for vulnerable neighbors.

REGENT Defense tested its Seaglider prototype on Narragansett Bay on Wednesday as the vehicle switched from hull mode to hydrofoil mode and reached speeds of nearly 20 mph—CEO Billy Thalheimer and co-founder Mike Klinker marked a key step before future human flight trials.

The company plans to eventually use the 15,000-pound model to carry 12 passengers to destinations such as New York and Nantucket.

A briefing from the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council and Bryant University said that unemployment in the state rose to 4.9% last quarter—from 4.7% earlier this year—while employment dropped to 559,000 and labor force participation fell to 63.7% after unprecedented low rates of 2.7% two years ago.

A federal judge ruled on Friday that Rhode Island’s gun permit system does not violate the Second Amendment — the decision supports Attorney General Peter Neronha’s motion that dismissed a 2023 lawsuit by gun owners and will be appealed by the plaintiffs.

Today, RIPTA officials propose cutting several bus routes including the Flex 301 to close a $10m gap left by lawmakers—transit users, educators and local business leaders warn these cuts will hinder access to work, school and grocery stores.

At a Tuesday morning hearing, Judge Brian Stern reviewed arguments over a lawsuit by the state against 13 companies that maintained Washington Bridge after its December 2023 closure for wear and tear.

Stern will decide by the end of this month, and if he rejects the companies’ motions, the trial will begin in November 2027—one year before the new bridge is set to open.

Butler Hospital’s 700 striking workers and management will resume talks with a federal mediator on Wednesday after the union rejected the hospital’s July 11 offer — a decision that came as the strike, ongoing since mid-May, forced the hospital to cut capacity by 35% and reduce benefits.

Elegant Peacock Glass Art Class

1-3:30 p.m. — Paint and Vino — Includes complimentary beverage — Create your own unique glass art masterpiece in a fun atmosphere.

Providence Flea Market

11 AM – 3 PM — 195 District Park — Free entry — Explore local vintage goods, artisan crafts, and delicious food amidst a vibrant community atmosphere.

Outdoor Bubble Play

2:00 – 2:30 PM — Wanskuck Library — Free — Enjoy bubbles, sidewalk chalk, and fun outdoor activities for toddlers in a safe environment.

Arts and Crafts at Capitol Ridge

3:30-4:30 p.m. — Capitol Ridge at Providence — Free entry — Monthly arts and crafts session with residents for a creative community experience.

Wee-One Wednesdays at RWP Botanical Center

9-10 a.m. — Roger Williams Park Botanical Center — Registration required — Bring your preschooler for nature-themed activities, crafts, and fun in the gardens.

Board Games Afterschool Activities

3-5 p.m. — Rochambeau Library — Free entry — Stop by to play a variety of board games and make new friends.

Live Music with Ron Giorgio

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Luigi's Restaurant & Gourmet Express — Cost varies — Experience Ron's powerhouse voice while enjoying a summer menu under the stars.

Garden Volunteer Day at Mt. Pleasant Library

10:00-11:30 a.m. — Mt. Pleasant Library — Free entry — Help maintain the beautiful library garden and enjoy the outdoors while giving back to the community.

Anthony Robustiano Live Comedy Show

7 PM – 1 AM — Comedy Connection — Check venue for pricing — Enjoy a night of high-energy stand-up comedy with Anthony Robustiano's relatable and vibrant storytelling.

Providence Art Club New Exhibitions Opening

2-4 p.m. — Providence Art Club — Free entry — Explore vibrant new art exhibitions featuring various talented artists and their unique perspectives.