Panera Bread to Host Fundraiser in Memory of Coventry Teen

On Monday, Oct. 21, the Panera Bread at 1000 Division Street in East Greenwich will hold a '10 Percent of Sales Night' in memory of Jacob “Jake” Aversa who unexpectedly passed away last month at the age of 13. The fundraising event, which will include a raffle prize table with all the proceeds going directly to the Aversa family, will be held from 4-8 p.m.

Jacob was an 8th grader at Alan Shawn Feinstein Middle School in Coventry. An avid athlete, Jacob loved all sports. He played basketball, soccer and his favorite sport, basketball, all in the Town’s recreation leagues. He especially enjoyed spending time with his friends and “scootering” at the local skate park. 

“I had the pleasure of coaching Jake in basketball and got to know him and his family,” said David Mruk, an Associate Trainer at Panera East Greenwich. “He was a real special kid who always had a smile on his face.  We thought this event would be a great way for people close to him to get together while helping his family get through this tough time.”

Gerald LePain, Head Coach, added, “I will always remember the crazy shots he would take during basketball practice and how he would just laugh and have fun. Jake has a special place in so many people’s heats. We will remember him as a great young man who loved his family and being with his friends.” 

For more information on the fundraiser in memory of Jake Aversa or how to contribute a raffle item, contact Panera Bread at East Greenwich Square at (401) 541-9088 or visit www.panerabreadhbg.com.