Local
Providence’s Nick-A-Nees raises more than $60,000 as costs threaten longtime venue
The South Street bar and music venue says rising operating expenses have put its future at risk after 30 years. A community fundraiser more than doubled its $30,000 goal, prompting staff to pause donations and urge patrons to keep coming in.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A fundraiser for Nick-A-Nees has raised more than $60,000, more than twice its original goal, as the South Street bar and music venue faces mounting costs and uncertainty about staying open.
The neighborhood fixture, which has operated for 30 years, said higher utility bills, supply costs and other expenses have made running the small business increasingly difficult. Staff said they have tried to boost business while keeping drinks affordable and live music free, but the financial pressure has become overwhelming.
The fundraiser was launched with a goal of raising more than $30,000 to cover urgent expenses and help keep the bar open through the holidays. By Monday, it had surpassed that target by more than 100%, and staff paused donations for the time being.
Nick-A-Nees has built a following not only as a bar but as a gathering place and a stage for local musicians. Regular Karen Sylvestre, who has visited for more than 20 years, said the venue means much more to its patrons than a typical bar. Addie Newbold, a former employee who remains a regular, described it as part of the city’s fabric.
Bartender Roze Anderson said the show of support has been overwhelming. With Providence’s music scene shrinking in recent years, Anderson said, Nick-A-Nees is among the few places where people can hear live music every day of the week without paying a cover charge.
Other Providence bars, including Hot Club, have also contributed thousands of dollars, staff said. The money raised may not resolve every financial challenge, they cautioned, and they cannot say what the start of next year will bring. Anderson encouraged people who cannot donate to support the venue by showing up.