Rhode Island Foundation announces matching grant challenge with Trinity Rep, Food Bank

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Foundation announced Friday that it is partnering with the Trinity Repertory Company and the Rhode Island Community Food Bank this holiday season.

The foundation will match every donation made to the theater during this year’s run of “A Christmas Carol” with an equal grant to the food bank up to $60,000.

“Nothing could be more appropriate at this time of the year than to kindle the giving spirit that glows in this timeless story and in the hearts of Rhode Islanders,” said CEO David Cicilline. “Inspiring neighbors to help neighbors in need is the true core of our philanthropic work.”

The partnership is in response to growing food insecurity in the state due to the high costs of food, housing, utilities, and transportation.

Officials said the food bank has served more than 80,000 people every month for the last six months — an increase of 25% over last year.

“Trinity Rep has been fortunate to partner with the Rhode Island Community Food Bank for years, raising funds for our neighbors during the holiday season. This collaboration with the Rhode Island Foundation gives our production of ‘A Christmas Carol’ a special kind of joy, knowing that the story of Scrooge’s journey to joyous generosity will be multiplied many times over as people rise to the occasion,” said Trinity Rep Artistic Director Curt Columbus.

Donations can be made to the theater online or by texting SCROOGE to 44-321.

Performances of the beloved Christmas tale began Thursday and will continue through New Year’s.