ABOUT US
Our Story
Community Angels
On Christmas Day 2018, the city of Providence lost one of its strongest voices: Laura Rodríguez—a mother, grandmother, wife, and lifelong community advocate. Born in the Dominican Republic, Laura arrived in Providence with a deep sense of justice. A former hotel housekeeper and union organizer, she became known as the unofficial mayor of South Providence, turning her home on Sumter Street into a hub for community organizing and support.
In 2010, Laura officially named her grassroots effort Community Angels, with a mission to bring holiday joy to children in underserved neighborhoods. What began with a few donated toys grew into a large-scale annual event offering not just gifts, but celebration, dignity, and love—complete with Santa photos, music, food, and a welcoming space for all.
Thanks to her tireless efforts and strong relationships with unions, hospitals, public officials, and nonprofits, by 2024, Community Angels had distributed over 2,000 coats and 15,000 toys to children from across the state.
Today, inspired by Laura’s values and legacy, we are expanding her mission beyond the holidays. Community Angels is launching year-round programs focused on education, recreation, and family engagement, because every child deserves more than one magical day—they deserve joy, support, and opportunity every day.
On Sumter Street, Laura Rodriguez Way now stands as a permanent reminder of the fire she lit in this community. Her impact lives on in every child she uplifted, every worker she fought for, and every voice she empowered to speak up.
We are the Community Angels.
And we will carry her torch—fiercely, joyfully, and always in her name.
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Your donation makes our work possible. Every contribution, large or small, becomes hope and opportunities for those most in need. Together we can build a better future!
