Project Undercover, the only organization in Rhode Island that works exclusively to reduce diaper need, is bringing back its hottest event for a second year.

“A Taste of Summer” will be held Thursday, Aug. 18 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Aqua at the Providence Marriott (1 Orms St., Providence). The event includes tastings from 12 local food purveyors and a special VIP hour featuring the Capital Grille and KEEL Vodka. All funds raised will support Project Undercover’s mission of providing diapers, socks, and underwear for the approximately 20,000 Rhode Island children from newborn to age seven living in poverty.

The beautiful poolside lounge at Aqua will be transformed into a culinary exhibition where guests can sample food from The Capital Grille, The Duck & Bunny, The Backyard Food Company, Vinya Tapas, Tarragon Bar, La Creperie, Trinity Brewhouse, Rocco’s Pub & Grub, Wes’ Rib House, Sicilia’s Pizzeria, Uncle Tony’s Pizza & Pasta and Aqua. There will also be music from WRIK Entertainment and a silent auction. Guests are encouraged to wear their best summer attire to this fun, casual event.

The VIP hour, which runs from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., includes an exclusive tasting from The Capital Grille and a cocktail from KEEL Vodka, as well as salon services by Salon Tash, local fashion vendors and a free goodie bag.

Event co-chair Stephanie Oster Wilmarth says the goal is to make this year’s event bigger and better than last year’s, which drew a sell-out crowd of 200 and raised over $9,000 for the all-volunteer organization.

What’s new this year? Wilmarth says: “We added more restaurants, plus the VIP hour. This will be a wonderful experience – a fun night out in a great summer location, and all for a good cause. Last year’s event enabled us to purchase 50,000 diapers for Rhode Island families who desperately need them. This year’s goal is to double that and with the incredible community support we’ve received, I know we can make it happen.”

Tickets are on sale at projectundercover.org. Tickets are $35/person through August 17 and $45 at the door (if available). VIP tickets are $75 and limited to 50 people.