Sen. Ujifusa, United Way honor Gloria Schmidt, Benjamin Church Senior Center

STATE HOUSE – Sen. Linda L. Ujifusa joined United Way in honoring the Benjamin Church Senior Center and local historian Gloria Schmidt for their outstanding contributions to the East Bay community.

Both received the 2025 Rhode Island Hope Award, a new award that United Way intends to bestow annually to outstanding nonprofit organizations and volunteers to recognize the critical impact of their service on their communities.

Senator Ujifusa (D-Dist. 11, Portsmouth, Bristol) nominated Gloria Schimdt for her research into local history and her successful efforts to share that knowledge with the community.

“Besides researching and writing the incredible Portsmouth RI history notes blog, Gloria is a tireless educator and event organizer for multiple groups including the Battle of Rhode Island and the Portsmouth Historical Society,” said Senator Ujifusa.

Senator Ujifusa nominated the Benjamin Church Senior Center and its Executive Director Donna Corona Wilson for their dedication and success in supporting a vibrant community for Bristol’s older population.

“Donna’s hard work, warmth, enthusiasm and commitment to improving the lives of our local seniors has been an inspiration to me,” said Senator Ujifusa.