Providence Alliance for Student Safety-Providence Youth Student Movement/Alliance of Rhode Island Southeast Asians for Education/Providence Student Union Announce Back-to-School Bash to Distribute School Supplies

As the cost of living rises and families continue to face financial pressure, this event offers immediate, practical relief to hundreds of students, and it’s being made possible by youth organizers.

With back-to-school around the corner, student leaders with the Providence Alliance for Student Safety (PASS) are stepping up to make sure every student has what they need to start the year strong.

In collaboration with Alliance of Rhode Island Southeast Asians for Education (ARISE), Providence Youth Student Movement (PrYSM), and Providence Student Union (PSU), this youth-led coalition is organizing a Back-to-School Bash on August 15 from 1-5pm at The Avenue Concept to distribute free school supplies to any Providence student in need of them.

Providence Alliance for Student Safety is looking to redefine and reimagine what safety in our schools and communities looks like, and we need the leadership of young people to do so. This initiative is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when young people lead. PASS has been stepping up to fill gaps where the system falls short since 2018.

There are four easy ways the community can get involved:

• Donate goods – Backpacks, binders, folders, paper, supply pouches, calculators, markers, colored pencils, glue, scissors, whiteout, erasers, other art supplies, etc.

• Donate time – Volunteer with us to set up and distribute supplies.

• Donate funds – Every dollar helps us reach more families.

• Attend the event – The Back to School Bash will take place on Friday, August 15th, 1-5 pm at The Avenue Concept (304 Lockwood St, Providence, RI 02907). All Providence students and families are welcome!

This event is open to young people of all ages and their families, as well as community members who would like to learn more about our work. Youth can pick up free school materials, including backpacks and other supplies, on a first-come first-served basis. Attendees can also look forward to free food and activities like Know Your Rights presentations, community resource tables, and more!

Whether you’re a local business, educator, parent, or student, now is your chance to give back. Let’s make sure every student in Providence starts the year with the tools they need to thrive. We’d love to share more details and connect you with youth organizers leading this effort.