Red Scarves Across the River

Originally launched in London, the Red Scarf movement seeks to end the stigma and raise awareness around HIV. AIDS Project Rhode Island (APRI) is bringing this worldwide movement to the Ocean State – both honoring those in our community that we’ve lost and supporting those currently living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in Rhode Island on World AIDS Day (December 1, 2021). We’re inviting YOU to knit, make, or donate– and then symbolically place– red scarves on the PVD Pedestrian Bridge to be on display on December 1st from 6 am to 6 pm. We have a goal of placing 1,748 (or more) scarves to signify those lost in Rhode Island to the HIV/AIDS epidemic since 1983. This art installation serves as a visual reminder of those lost and provides a distanced way for our community to come together in a show of support in a safe, impactful way. At the conclusion of the week, all scarves will be removed and donated to vulnerable community members to provide comfort and warmth to people who are at increased risk for HIV.

Want to help support RSATR?

Donate a red scarf for our installation anytime before November 30th. Donations are being accepted at:

• FSRI @ 134 Thurbers Ave. Providence, RI 02905
• Plant City @ 334 S Water St, Providence, RI 02903

You can Tie A Red Scarf by making a donation. When you sponsor a Red Scarf, we share a scarf with someone in need and your donation supports free client programs and services at AIDS Project Rhode Island.

Want to sponsor Rhode Island’s Red Scarf movement to end stigma and increase care for people affected by HIV? Click here to learn more about our sponsor benefits.

KNIT

Knit a Scarf. We have a goal of placing 1,748 (or more) scarves to signify those lost in Rhode Island to the HIV/AIDS epidemic since 1983. Knit or crochet a scarf in any pattern with red yarn. Please make sure your scarf is a minimum size of 6″ x 60.”

What are the benefits of knitting?

Knitting Reduces Stress. “The rhythmic repetitive movements induce a form of meditation similar to mindfulness – that pleasant state of mind when you’re existing ‘in the moment’, not mulling over the past or fretting about the future” said Corkhill. “Knitters find they can ‘zone out’ – and escape into the sanctuary of a quiet mind” [The Daily Mail]

Other benefits of knitting:

• https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2016/01/25/the-health-benefits-of-knitting/
• https://www.lifehack.org/314247/6-unexpected-benefits-knitting
• https://mhanational.org/blog/mental-health-benefits-knitting

Does it matter what kind of yarn I use?

As long as it’s red – we are just grateful for your time and support!

If you’re interested, here is a link to a review on the best yarns for scarves: 7 Best Yarns For Scarves In 2021 – The Creative Folk

How can I learn to make a scarf?

Check out these fun videos on how to make a scarf:

• How to knit a scarf: How to Knit a Scarf for the Absolute Beginner – YouTube
• How to crochet a scarf: How to Crochet a Scarf for the Complete Beginner – YouTube

Observing World AIDS Day

On December 1st, APRI will light up the Rhode Island statehouse red, in honor of World AIDS Day.  We ask you to take a moment of silence in honor of the 1,748 people who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS.   

Sponsorship Package

Text REDSCARF to 44-321

Join Rhode Island’s Red Scarf movement this World AIDS Day and help to raise real awareness and stand against stigma to improve the lives of those living with, affected by, and at risk for HIV/AIDS in our community.

All proceeds support AIDS Project Rhode Island and our work to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative response to the needs of people living with, affected by, and at risk for HIV. We strive to accomplish our mission through leadership in the prevention, education, supportive services, and advocacy. We serve more than 1,500 people throughout Rhode Island every year. APRI is a division of Family Service of Rhode Island.

Donate Now

Contact Jenna Pfueller at pfuellerje@familyserviceri.org

THANK YOU for joining us to bring the Red Scarf movement to Rhode Island! YOU are making all of the difference!