KINGSTON, R.I. – May 27, 2011 — During the past few weeks, University of Rhode Island students studied for final exams, wrote research papers, said goodbye to friends, packed up their dorm rooms, graduated and moved out for the summer.

While doing some spring cleaning, many have also donated food, clothing, and household items to the eighth annual Rhody the Ram Charity Yard Sale to be held Saturday, June 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will be held at the Keaney parking lot at the Kingston Campus. The rain date is Sunday, June 12.

Proceeds will benefit local charities and the Rhody the Ram Endowment, which funds scholarships for students who volunteer as URI’s mascot.

So far, more than 1,508 pounds of food were donated to the Jonnycake Center, a 200-pound increase from last year, along with 29 large garbage bags of summer clothing.

“URI’s donation will help to eliminate hunger in our community,” said Susan Gustatis, executive director of the Jonnycake Center.

Several large bags of blankets and towels have been donated to the Exeter Animal Shelter.

As in years past, at the end of the yard sale, all remaining items will be donated to Big Sisters of Rhode Island.

Community members may drop off additional donations on Thursday, June 2 at the former Roger Williams Dining Center from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. or Friday, June 10 at the Keaney parking lot from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To contribute donations at alternate locations or times, please call 401-874-2460.

Community members are also encouraged to set up their own items to sell at the yard sale. The cost to rent a table is $25.

Recipients of Rhody the Ram Endowment scholarships must be at least sophomores in good academic standing. The scholarship program helps recruit prospective mascots and retain current ones.

For more information about the yard sale, please contact Mary Brennan at 401-874-2840 or MBrennan@uri.edu, or Gerri Beagle at 401-874-2460 or Gbeagle@foundation.uri.edu.