In 2022, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island (BBBSRI) matched 55 new mentor/mentee pairs and supported 191 young people and their families. BBBSRI gave $18,000 in scholarships, $26,000 to support basic needs for families and enrichment opportunities for young people and distributed $130,000 to over 60 nonprofit and municipalities.

In order to answer Rhode Island’s continued needs, BBBSRI needs your support and donations. The Donation Center Foundation of RI is a subsidiary of BBBSRI and collects used clothing and small household items, funding 77 percent of BBBSRI’s mentoring programs. 2022 donations have drastically dropped 44 percent due to the effects of Covid and an influx of for-profit textile recyclers. With the unforeseen financial decline, the agency’s resources have become limited, straining its scope of service. Without support, BBBSRI will have to freeze or stop enrolling young people who, at this moment, desperately want a mentor.

The need for mentoring has never been greater than it is today with our youth’s mental health concerns at the forefront. Post-pandemic, on average, 40 young people inquire monthly, about getting a mentor. A 56 percent increase from last year, and 145 percent increase pre-pandemic!

BBBSRI can only continue to give forward to fellow Rhode Islanders with your help.

Ways to Support:

1. Become a Mentor BBBSRI is currently experiencing a male mentor shortage. Fifty boys are waiting who’d like a positive male mentor. Visit BigsRI.org/beabig to start the process.
2. Donate cloth, fabric and small household items. Visit DonateRI.org to find out how you can: 1.) Schedule a free curbside pickup 2.) Bring donations to one of our four donation centers 3.) Drop donations in one of our 100+ green bins throughout the state.
3. Make a Financial Donation: Help fill the financial gap BBBSRI is feeling. Donate by shopping at Macy’s now through Dec. 24 and “round up” at checkout at the Providence and Warwick locations.

You can also:

1. Host a clothing drive in your neighborhood or work.
2. Help place a Green Donation Bin near you.
3. Ask about free yard signs 401-921-2434, #2

No matter how you give this season, your donation will positively impact young people throughout the state!