Doughboys, Grief, and Housing Struggle | Providence News

Providence News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 25, 2026 · 1m

Michael Parrella turned his grief into purpose by launching a food truck honoring his three sons — but life keeps throwing him curveballs. After losing his oldest son Mikey to cerebral palsy and then his 21-year-old son Gian to a fentanyl overdose, Michael was diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer. Now unable to work, he’s relying on disability benefits while facing crushing financial pressure. He’s sold his food truck, borrowed from family, and still can’t afford his apartment in North Providence — where a two-bedroom rents for $2,000 a month. With housing waitlists stretching into the…