To the editor:

East Providence has always been home. My parents, the late Jose Leite and Maria Jesus Sousa, came from São Miguel; my father from Ponta Garça and my mother from Ribeira Grande. Here, they built our family’s life, and here I have proudly served Ward 2 as your councilwoman for nearly 10 years.

As a lifelong parishioner of St. Francis Xavier Church, with family ties to the Holy Ghost Beneficial Brotherhood, Holy Ghost Brotherhood of Charity, PAC, and Trinity Brotherhood, I learned the importance of community and showing up for others.

That commitment has guided my public service. I spearheaded a seven-day grace period for property and water tax payments, helping families avoid a 12% late penalty. With support from my council colleagues, I helped establish the city’s first major street and sidewalk repair program, initially allocating $10 million over five years, with continued funding afterward.

Supporting children and schools remains close to my heart. As a member of the Hennessey and Whiteknact elementary school PTAs, I have participated in Reading Week and contributed to fundraisers supporting academics, sports teams, the Boys & Girls Club, and local youth organizations. I am grateful to the families, educators, and volunteers who make these efforts possible.

I also initiated the city’s first Utility Box Art Project, giving local artists opportunities to brighten public spaces. A $5,000 scholarship donation to East End Theatre & Performing Arts supported young people’s participation in the arts.

Over the years, I have hosted community events, including City Hall’s annual Christmas tree lighting, Women’s Month celebrations, the Day of Portugal celebration, October festivities at Pierce Field featuring trunk-or-treat, and elementary school ice cream socials. These gatherings bring neighbors together and celebrate our community’s traditions.

I understand the financial pressures residents face because I work multiple jobs to make ends meet. As a registered nurse and educator, I listen, explain options, and advocate for others. I bring those same values to the council: listening carefully, using common sense, and speaking up for residents.

Looking ahead, I remain committed to a responsible budget that supports city departments, honors contractual obligations, and pays our debts without overspending. Maintaining roads, sidewalks, water and wastewater utilities, and other infrastructure will remain priorities.

Progress requires cooperation. I thank my council colleagues, city employees, community organizations, and residents for their contributions and the trust they have placed in me. Together, we have accomplished work that improves daily life, and there is more to do. I will continue listening to your concerns, working with our community, and following through on the responsibilities you have entrusted to me.

My commitment remains rooted in service, respect, and putting people over politics.

On Nov. 3, I sincerely ask for your vote to reelect me as your Ward 2 councilwoman. I will keep listening, showing up, and working for the people of East Providence.

To volunteer or request a lawn sign, please email vote4asousa@gmail.com.

Anna M. Sousa
East Providence

Anna Sousa is the incumbent Ward 2 representative on the East Providence City Council