Davis-Tennon Foundation Awards Winter Grants Totaling $235,000

CENTRAL FALLS, RI — The Davis-Tennon Foundation has awarded $235,000 in Winter funding to eight Rhode Island organizations, supporting programs that expand access to essential resources and create pathways for individuals to fully participate in community life.

This latest round of funding reflects the Foundation’s continued focus on meeting basic human needs while investing in organizations that are deeply rooted in the communities they serve. The selected grantees represent a range of programs addressing food access, youth development, violence prevention, and support for survivors of domestic violence.

Davis–Tennon Foundation Chair Angelo Garcia shared that he remains in close contact with both Viola and Julius, noting their continued and growing support for organizations serving Central Falls and neighboring communities.

“Viola and Julius were just here last month, and they were struck by the breadth of work happening through the foundation. They continue to express deep respect for the people on the front lines supporting our families and youth. We are fortunate to have them as benefactors and as friends of the city.”

Winter 2026 Funding Recipients

Segue / Mary Alice Davis Food Pantry — $75,000
Supporting the continued expansion of food access in the Blackstone Valley, including extended service hours and increased capacity to serve more than 3,000 residents each month.

Project GOAL — $25,000
Providing free, high-quality academic and youth development programming for Central Falls students, with a focus on expanding access and increasing participation.

Tides / Family Services — $20,000
Launching a Social Enterprise initiative focused on workforce development and employment pathways.

The Learning Community — $5,000
Supporting experiential learning opportunities by bringing external educators, artists, and professionals into student programming.

Institute for the Practice of Non-Violence — $30,000
Expanding outreach and programming for at-risk youth, including nonviolence training, social-emotional learning, and community-based support.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island — $25,000
Increasing access to mentorship and structured enrichment opportunities for youth and families.

Central Falls Square Mile Club — $30,000
Supporting afterschool and evening programming that provides students with academic support, career exploration, and enrichment activities.

SOAR / Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence — $25,000
Providing direct support and resources for survivors of domestic violence, including services for non-English-speaking individuals across the state.

Rooted in Central Falls, the Davis-Tennon Foundation continues to prioritize investments that remove barriers to stability, safety, and opportunity. While the Foundation’s work begins locally, it reflects a broader commitment to strengthening systems that allow individuals to recognize their worth and move forward with dignity.

This Winter funding round reinforces the Foundation’s belief that meaningful change happens through trusted partnerships, sustained investment, and a clear focus on the conditions that allow individuals and communities to thrive.

About the Davis-Tennon Foundation

The Davis-Tennon Foundation works to remove barriers and expand access to essential resources so individuals can recognize their worth and fully participate in their communities. Founded by Central Falls native Viola Davis and her husband Julius Tennon, the Foundation supports initiatives focused on empowering women, preventing domestic violence, expanding student opportunity, and promoting housing stability. For more information, visit: davis-tennonfoundation.org

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