This fall, the 02908 Merchants Collective hosted its inaugural public event, the Taste of 02908, celebrating the vibrant local community and its small businesses. Held at Davis Park, the event brought together dozens of food vendors, nonprofit organizations, and community partners, creating a lively, family-friendly atmosphere that showcased the neighborhood’s diversity and strong sense of pride. Families enjoyed delicious offerings from local restaurants, while children took part in fun games, activities, and character visits. The Taste of 02908 reflected the collective spirit of the neighborhood and the growing connections among its residents, businesses, and organizations.
The Taste of the 02908 was the result of a larger initiative aimed at uniting and empowering small businesses throughout02908, which includes Smith Hill, Valley ,and Mount Pleasant neighborhoods . The creation of the 02908 Merchants Collective grew out of a broader revitalization effort initiated by Providence’s participation in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Cohort in 2023. As one of 15 cities nationwide involved in this program, Providence aimed to reevaluate and revitalize the Smith Hill Revitalization Plan, with a central focus on establishing a merchants’ association. Thanks to the extensive organizing efforts of Central Providence Unidos, a place-based initiative of One Neighborhood Builders, the scope of this initiative expanded beyond Smith Hill to encompass the entire 02908 zip code. With support from One Neighborhood Builders and other partners in the Thriving Communities project, the 02908 Merchants Collective was born, uniting a diverse group of local businesses and organizations.
For One Neighborhood Builders and Central Providence Unidos, the event perfectly embodied our shared commitment to building stronger communities and local economies through collaboration, equity, and resident leadership. As the 02908 Merchants Association continues to grow and foster connections among local businesses, One Neighborhood Builders and Central Providence Unidos remain dedicated partners, ensuring that the voices of both residents and entrepreneurs will help shape the future of their community.
