East Providence library receives 2021 LORI Grant; expands children’s culinary program

East Providence, RI – The City of East Providence Public Library, along with 15 other libraries, has received a Library of Rhode Island (LORI) grant award for its Kitchen Inspiration Program Charlie Cart Project. This project is made possible in part by the grant from the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS). The grants are supported through the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) using funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

OLIS awarded the libraries $431,000 in funding. East Providence received $12,210 of those funds and will use the funds to support its Kitchen Inspiration program.

The Kitchen Inspiration program is an expansion of Fuller Creative Learning Center’s culinary programs for children.

“We are thrilled to learn that East Providence Public Library is a recipient of this grant award and we are grateful to the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services and the LORI grant program for providing the support needed to expand Fuller’s food access and nutrition education programs,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said.

At the core of the program is the Charlie Cart Project, a program which educates children about affordable and healthy food choices and provides cooking and nutrition lessons for children and adults. The actual Charlie Cart, features small appliances and kitchen equipment, which engages the children.

East Providence Library Director Joyce May said she is grateful to RI OLIS for the award.

“Hands-on cooking lessons offer opportunities to educate on a range of topics, from health and nutrition to life and academic skills,” Director May said. “Most importantly, cooking and eating bring people together through a shared activity and cooking is fun!”