AIDS Project Rhode Island to Host 36th Annual Run for Life 5K

Via Getty Images

AIDS Project Rhode Island (APRI) is hosting its thirty-sixth annual AIDS Walk for Life event on Saturday, May 6. Established in the 1980s as part of a wave of grassroots fundraisers held across the country, APRI’s event will raise funds to support services that protect the 2,700 Rhode Islanders currently living with HIV/AIDS.  

All runners, walkers and supporters across the state are encouraged to don red capes for the superhero-themed 5k. Organized by Charles Braegy of RunRhody, this event will unite runners and walkers across the Northeast to combat stigma and advance equity, health and wellness for communities most impacted by HIV.  

As part of APRI’s mission to provide non-judgmental, compassionate mental and physical care to those living with HIV/AIDS, the organization offers a myriad of services. Some of those services include: STD and HIV testing, mental health care, substance use disorder intervention, nutritional support, medication management, dental care, emergency financial assistance, housing advocacy and much more. A majority—if not all—of these resources are especially emphasized and made available to low-income and minority communities, as they are most disproportionately affected by the disease.   

The starting line will be located at the Pierce Memorial Field in East Providence. Registration opens at 8 a.m. and the race will begin promptly at 9 a.m. Following the race, the City of East Providence LGBTQI+ Advisory Council to the Mayor will hold its second annual Pride Day parade and celebration at Pierce Memorial Field.  

Visit APRI’s website to register in advance. Donations may also be made on the website, whether it is toward a fundraiser, a specific team or just a general submission, all contributions are welcome and very much needed. Contact APRI at 401-831-5522 for any questions about the event.