North Kingstown Youth Commission proposes $4700 for water fountains and school supplies

During the North Kingstown Town Council meeting on May 12, 2025, the Youth Commission presented two significant proposals aimed at enhancing community resources for school-age children. These initiatives, funded through the Learn 365 grant from Governor McKee, reflect the commission's commitment to improving the lives of local youth.

The first proposal focused on the installation of filtered water fountains in public parks. Representatives from the Youth Commission, including students from local middle schools, emphasized the importance of hygiene and accessibility to clean drinking water. They requested $4,400 to cover the costs of purchasing and installing multiple water fountains, which would include features for filling water bottles to minimize germ transfer. The timeline for this project includes ordering the fountains by May 2025 and completing installations by June 2025. The council engaged with the presenters, seeking clarification on the fountains' capabilities and their proposed locations, which are still under discussion with the North Kingstown Parks and Recreation Department.

The second proposal involved a school supply drive, aimed at supporting families in need for the upcoming school year. The Youth Commission outlined a plan to allocate $2,500 from the grant to purchase essential school supplies, which would be organized and delivered to the Office of Family Learning for distribution. This initiative is designed to ensure that students have the necessary materials for their education, with a focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The supplies are expected to be ordered by May 2025 and distributed by August 2025, aligning with the start of the school year.

These proposals highlight the proactive role of the Youth Commission in addressing community needs and fostering collaboration between local government and youth initiatives. The Town Council's decision on funding these projects will be pivotal in determining the resources available to support North Kingstown's youth and their educational experiences. As discussions continue, the council will weigh the potential impact of these initiatives on the community's well-being and the importance of investing in its future generations.