Giving Beyond the Box assembles thoughtful presents that give back . There are all kinds of gift boxes to choose from , but the “ Hope Strikes Back ” curated packages include items from local businesses owned by people of color . Businesses include Soulita Soap , Mesa Fresca , Tomaquag Museum , the Black Leaf Tea and Culture Company , GoTeff , Pioneer Prints , Nissi Naturals and Impact Everything , among others . “ With Hope Strikes Back , we want to provide a bridge between businesses of color and consumers interested in economic empowerment ,” says founder and CEO Sandra Enos . A portion of the profit made from these boxes benefits a charity of each business ’ s choice . “ These enterprises are doing important work and consumers are increasingly asking where their food , clothing and other products are coming from ,” Enos says . Valentine ’ s boxes and other options will also be available , featuring Rhode Island-based social impact businesses as well as national brands . Order online for home delivery or find pick up points at givingbeyondthebox . com . — RACHEL DVARECKAS

PHOTOGRAPH ( THIS PAGE ): COURTESY OF GIVING BEYOND THE BOX ; ( OPPOSITE ): COURTESY OF PUBLISHERS .

16 RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY l FEBRUARY 2021