Brigido’s Fresh Markets Packs Local Students for Success

(September 3, 2025) North Smithfield, RI - With the new school year just around the corner, Brigido’s Fresh Markets is helping local students start strong by donating 100 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to neighborhood elementary schools.

Now in its second year, the donation was made possible through contributions from Brigido’s corporate partners and store owners. School leaders, including North Smithfield Elementary School Principal Jennifer Daigneault and Assistant Principal Tracy Lafreniere, as well as A.T. Levy Elementary School Principal David Brissette, and Callahan Elementary School Principal Rudolf Moseley, picked up the backpacks at their neighborhood Brigido’s locations last week to ensure the supplies reach the children who need them most.

North Smithfield Elementary School’s leadership team attended the event to support their students. Assistant Principal Tracy Lafreniere, with 28 years at the school, joined Principal Jen Daigneault, who’s been there 27 years. Thirty supply-filled backpacks were donated for the upcoming school year.

The effort kicked off on Thursday, August 21, when North Smithfield Elementary School representatives collected backpacks at Brigido’s of North Smithfield on Victory Highway. The following afternoon, August 22, Scituate and Clayville Elementary Schools received their donations at the North Scituate Brigido’s on Village Plaza Way. The final pickup took place Thursday, August 28, when Pascoag Elementary School collected its share of supplies.

Each backpack was filled with items like notebooks, pencils, rulers, crayons, highlighters, glue, and water bottles; essentials for a successful school year. Schools will coordinate with families to distribute the supplies to students most in need.

“This program is about more than school supplies, it’s about supporting families and making sure children feel prepared and confident walking into their classrooms,” said Fernandez, owner of Brigido’s Fresh Markets. “As a family-owned and operated business, our focus has always been on investing in the well-being of our neighborhoods. The backpack giveaway is one way we can show that commitment.”

By partnering with schools and community leaders, Brigido’s Fresh Markets continues to demonstrate how local businesses can make a meaningful difference in the lives of Rhode Island students and families.

About Brigido’s Fresh Markets

Established in 1975, Brigido’s Fresh Market has been a staple in Rhode Island’s grocery scene. Under the new ownership of the Fernandez family, the markets continue to uphold their commitment to quality, service, and community involvement. The Fernandez family brings over 30 years of experience in the supermarket industry and is dedicated to enhancing the shopping experience for all customers.

Brigido’s Slatersville is located at 900 Victory Hwy, North Smithfield, RI 02896. For more information, feel free to call (401) 762-1020.