Mayor Brett Smiley, City Council President Rachel Miller, Rhode Island Commerce, and Brown University have announced recovery grants for three merchant associations affected by the December 13, 2025, shooting at Brown University. The Thayer District Merchant Association, Wickenden Area Merchant Association, and Wayland Square Merchants Association will each receive $15,000 from the City of Providence, matched by Rhode Island Commerce and Brown University, totaling $45,000 per association. These funds aim to support small businesses that experienced significant declines in foot traffic and customer confidence during the holiday season following the tragedy. The grants will help stabilize local commerce and assist recovery efforts by addressing economic challenges faced by these business districts. Mayor Smiley emphasized the importance of supporting neighborhood businesses during this difficult time, while Council President Miller highlighted the city’s commitment to helping affected merchants recover. Brown University President Christina Paxson expressed gratitude for the community’s support and the opportunity to contribute to the recovery. Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce Stefan Pryor noted the grants will strengthen economic resilience in the impacted areas. The merchant associations will manage the grant funds based on their specific local needs.