Good vibes, live music, and generosity came together in a heartwarming way at the Play It Forward Live Music Clothing Drive, a special event that brought the East Providence community together to support local schoolchildren in need of warm-weather clothing.
Produced by EastProv Hospitality, an independent community social media platform, the event was designed to shine a spotlight on Hope & Faith Drive, LLC, a non-profit founded by Carl and Maureen Sweeney. For years, Hope & Faith Drive has been dedicated to lifting up East Providence kids and families through acts of kindness and practical support, making a real difference where it matters most.
The benefit took place on Saturday, October 11th, from 4 PM to 7 PM at Myrtle, a popular East Providence entertainment venue that has become a go-to stage for both local and national performing artists. Guests were treated to music donated by the Play It Forward Band, a group of talented musicians who came together just for this community gathering. The band featured Joshua David on guitar and lead vocals, Thom Costa on bass and vocals, Harry Lawton on keyboards and vocals, Jeff Giacomelli on saxophone and vocals, and Gary Santos on drums, performing a lively mix of classic rock, pop, and blues that kept spirits high all afternoon.
Adding to the excitement, every attendee who donated clothing received a free raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes generously contributed by local East Providence businesses and other Rhode Island establishments. This thoughtful gesture reminded everyone that community comes in many forms—from music and smiles to small acts of giving.
EastProv Hospitality and Hope & Faith Drive extend heartfelt thanks to the East Providence businesses that helped make the event a success: FUNdamentals, Rosa’s Tavern, Uncle Tony’s, The Nerdy Baker, Power Pup Treats, McShortagee’s, Dark New England Haunted Trail, Skeff’s Pub, United Skates of America, Cia Bella Salon, KC’s Soaps, and Graphic Ink. Additional donations were kindly contributed by the Providence Bruins, Greenwich Odeum, and Blackstone River Theatre in Cumberland, RI.
Reflecting on the event, Gary Santos, publisher of EastProvHospitality.com, said, “Since launching our social media platform just over a year ago, our dream has been to create community events that give back. Supporting Hope & Faith Drive was a natural fit and having the welcoming Myrtle as our venue made it even more special.”
The event closed on a heartwarming finale as the Play It Forward Band performed “Lean On Me,” a song that beautifully reflects the mission of Hope & Faith Drive—bringing hope, support, and a helping hand to East Providence children and families who need it most.
The Play It Forward Live Music Clothing Drive wasn’t just an event—it was a celebration of community, generosity, and the power of people coming together for a good cause!
