East Providence, R.I. – A grassroots food‑drive intended to help residents of the City View and Goldsmith Manor housing complexes has become a point of contention between the organizer and city officials. Brian Coogan, known online as “Mr. EP,” mobilized hundreds of volunteers and donations after hearing that many families in the two buildings lacked reliable pantry access.
Organizer’s intent
Coogan, who recently ran as an independent for the Rhode Island Senate, said he agreed to collect only food items – no cash, gift cards, or other monetary contributions – after residents asked for assistance. “They said, please, you know, we have a pantry here. Not everybody in the building needs it, but a lot of people need it,” Coogan told local media.
Mayor’s intervention
Later, Coogan received a recorded phone call from an attorney representing the East Providence Housing Authority. The call instructed him to cease all food solicitation and to remove any food already on site by the close of business the next day. “We need to ask you to immediately stop soliciting any more food donations,” the attorney said.
Coogan interpreted the directive as politically motivated, noting that Mayor Bob DaSilva had not been invited to participate in the effort. “This got political because Bob wasn’t invited,” he said.
Mayor’s response
Mayor DaSilva denied any political motive and clarified that he does not control the housing authority’s day‑to‑day decisions, aside from appointing its board members. “I keep my hands clear of the housing authority, other than appointing personnel to it,” he said.
The mayor explained that the dispute centers on whether the two properties are authorized to operate a food pantry. “They are not an authorized food pantry. They’re not licensed to be a food pantry,” DaSilva stated, emphasizing the need for proper licensing and coordination.
Compromise and next steps
Despite the disagreement, city officials and Coogan have reached a limited compromise. Residents will be allowed to pick up donated food on Tuesday, November 9, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Coogan criticized the narrow window, saying it creates confusion and chaos. “You’re just creating chaos. Let the people who started this finish it,” he argued.
DaSilva countered that coordination is essential for a successful effort. “It was a wonderful gesture, but get the people involved who need to be involved,” he said, urging a more organized approach.
Community impact
The dispute highlights the challenges of grassroots relief efforts operating within municipal regulations. While the food drive was intended to address immediate hunger needs, city officials stress the importance of adhering to licensing requirements to ensure safety and accountability.
Local residents and volunteers are encouraged to attend the Tuesday pickup and to stay informed about any further updates from the mayor’s office or the housing authority. The situation underscores the need for clear communication between community organizers and city leaders to effectively serve those in need.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
