March 29, 2024

Local Family “Pays it Forward”

Posted

By Bob Rodericks

Carl Sweeney is a school maintenance worker for East Providence. Getting around to all of the city schools and being a lifelong city resident, has revealed to him how many people struggle to provide enough for their families. “I know I can’t help everyone in need but I try to make a difference with those that I can,” Sweeney told the Reporter in an interview last month. Sweeney and his family began an effort three years ago which they have named the “Hope and Faith Drive.” Almost four years later the Sweeny’s have provided food, goods and services for over 20 families in need each month. “Our drive began by asking some of our families and friends to donate $1.00 each month to help buy food to give to those who we knew needed it most,” said Sweeney. “In just a few months that one dollar turned into much more. As people learned of this effort we soon received donations from many others. We have received contributions from local sporting goods organizations and from summer camp programs. Children in our community have had lemonade stands and birthday parties with proceeds going to our "Hope and Faith Drive", continued Sweeney.

Sweeney attributed his family's charitable effort to his granddaughter. "I wanted to find a way to show her how important it is to give back to those less fortunate. She was excited and wanted to help do something for others. She came up with the name 'Hope and Faith' to describe our effort."

Many of the groups' donations and helpers come from city schools and civic organizations. Local schools host food drives, parties and other efforts to donate food and money. "As an example, the staff & students at Whiteknact School are excited about helping others in this season of giving!" said teacher Colleen Holland. "We all appreciate you & the WONDERFUL work you continue to do for the families of East Providence. Thanks for making sure our canned goods go to the appropriate places. YOU are the BEST Carl!" continued Holland's face book post to Sweeney. Like several other community groups in the city, the Hope and Faith movement sponsors an active on-line membership. Other schools in East Providence are also similarly aboard this effort.

Sweeney's sister, Maureen Sweeney Nolan, is a big contributor to the charity. "Anyone who is willing can give Carl one dollar a week. He truly appreciates all your support. Some people give him more than a dollar a week and that is totally up to the person. Every dollar counts and helps East Providence families. Thanks everyone," says Nolan in seeking group support.

Rosa Dalomba Veiga adds this: "May God bless you and your family my friend. What you do, there aren't many out there who would do this. Thank you for thinking of those less fortunate. We love you."

Sweeney makes a point to thank those in the schools for contributing. "I am thankful to everyone in the schools for donating food. I leave boxes in the teachers rooms and everyone is so generous. Together we all work to get food and necessities to those in need. It's so good to see the children collecting cans and taking & interest in what we're doing," said Sweeney.

Teacher Laurie Reid Garrity adds a comment to the Sweeney family effort. "Thank-you for giving us an opportunity to understand the meaning of community!"

During our interview Sweeney said that he is always thinking of ways to expand the number of needy people his charity assists. In addition to helping over 20 families on a monthly basis, Sweeney's group makes other large food donations for major holidays. "We make special deliveries on Thanksgiving and Christmas. We also hold a major summer raffle." Sweeney is pushing forward. "To my family and friends, I want to do more. Over the next few months I would like to form a group of people who would be willing to come up with more ideas to help those in need or those going through a rough time. I would like to continue exploring ways to get our food out to those who may need it. We could meet every 6-8 weeks at my house for coffee and dessert to brainstorm," Sweeney offers. Sweeney asked us to pass along his appreciation to Reporter readers. "I thank everyone who has continually helped support our drive by getting your school involved or making a contribution in some way. This would not be possible without your help," he said.

Carl Sweeney is a hard working school maintenance worker who modestly supports his own family. He chooses to spend a lot of his free time trying to improve the lot of many in East Providence who need so much. "In a world where money is tight and local budgets are dwindling, I am inspired by the level of enthusiasm we receive from family, friends and community. This fuels my fires to do more," he states with a look of determination on his face. His 'fire' is also stoked by his grandchildren and the memories of his late parents. "What a beautiful feeling it is when someone makes a donation of food and trusts us to deliver it to someone they never met. God bless all of you," Sweeney tells his volunteers.

If you wish to help donate to the Sweeney 'Hope and Faith Drive', you can contact Carl Sweeney directly at 401-474-4624; or by visiting their growing Face book page at Hope and Faith Drive.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here


Share!
Truly local news delivered to every home in town