Assistance for Rural Single Mothers in Rhode Island
Assistance Programs for Rural Single Mothers in Rhode Island
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help right now
- If you need shelter or are at risk of homelessness: Call the Rhode Island Coordinated Entry hotline at 401-277-4316 to be matched to shelter and housing resources. (rihomeless.org, rihomeless.org)
- If you are in danger or experiencing abuse: Call the 24/7 Rhode Island statewide Helpline at 1-800-494-8100 for confidential support and safe shelter options. (ricadv.org)
- If you need food today: Dial 211 to reach United Way’s 24/7 helpline for the nearest pantry or meal site, or use the Rhode Island Community Food Bank’s “Find Food” map. (unitedwayri.org, rifoodbank.org)
- If you have an urgent utility shut‑off notice: Call your local Community Action Program (CAP) agency (see “Heat and utilities” below) or dial 211 for Good Neighbor Energy Fund screening. (ricommunityaction.org)
Quick help box
- Apply for cash, food, child care, and health coverage in one place: Start with the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS) online portal or call the DHS Call Center at 1-855-697-4347. Application help is available statewide. (dhs.ri.gov)
- For health insurance and Medicaid questions: Contact HealthSource RI at 1-855-840-4774 for free enrollment help. (healthsourceri.com)
- If you live in South County or other rural towns: Your primary CAP agencies are Tri‑County Community Action (South County office 401-789-3016) and Westbay Community Action (401-732-4660) for Kent County; East Bay CAP (401-847-7821) serves Newport County. (ricommunityaction.org)
- For legal help during an eviction: If you have a pending court date, call Rhode Island Legal Services at 401-274-2652 or the Center for Justice at 401-491-1101. (rihousing.com)
What makes this guide different
- What we checked: We reviewed the top search results for “help for single moms in Rhode Island” and found many lists with vague or outdated info, few rural contacts, and missing phone numbers or real dollar amounts (for example, common posts did not include Rhode Island’s 2025 SNAP and CCAP figures). (wealthysinglemommy.com, asinglemother.org, singlemotherguide.com)
- What you’ll get here: Plain‑language steps, verified eligibility rules, current amounts, realistic timelines, and direct links to official sources you can apply through today.
- Who this is for: Rural single mothers in towns like Exeter, Charlestown, Hopkinton, Richmond, South Kingstown, North Kingstown, Westerly, Coventry, West Greenwich, Jamestown, Little Compton, Portsmouth, Middletown, and Tiverton.
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Program | Who it helps | Key 2025 numbers | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP (food) | Most low‑income families | Max monthly for 3 is $768; gross income test up to 185% FPL; FY window through September 30, 2025 | Apply with DHS; see income charts and amounts |
| RI Works (cash) | Very low‑income parents | Typical monthly: 2 701∗∗,3∗∗701**, 3 **865, 4 $990 | Apply with DHS |
| CCAP child care | Working/learning parents | Entry income up to 261% FPL (3 = $69,557) | Apply with DHS |
| RIte Care/Medicaid | Parents, pregnant people, kids | Parents up to 133% FPL; pregnant up to 253% FPL; kids up to 261% FPL | Apply via HealthSource RI/DHS |
| WIC | Pregnant/postpartum, infants, kids <5 | 2025 fruit/veg benefit monthly: child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52 | Apply via RIDOH WIC |
| LIHEAP (heat) | Income ≤ 60% state median | For 3: ≤ $63,164/yr; application window usually September–May | Apply with your CAP agency |
| Good Neighbor Energy Fund | Temporary crisis, above LIHEAP | Up to $825 grant; income ≤ 300% FPL | Screen via CAP or 211 |
| SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) | School‑age children | $120 per child each summer | DHS (auto‑issue for many; application available) |
| TCI (paid family leave) | Workers bonding or caregiving | Up to 7 weeks in 2025; max weekly 1,103∗∗(withdependentsupto∗∗1,103** (with dependents up to **1,489) | File with RI DLT |
Sources and details follow in each section. (dhs.ri.gov, eohhs.ri.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us, business.providencechamber.com, dlt.ri.gov)
Food assistance
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
First step: Apply through DHS online or call 1-855-697-4347. If you qualify for RI Works, Medicaid, or have very low income, apply now; you can upload documents later. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Who qualifies: Most households must meet a gross income test up to 185% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), a net income test at 100% FPL, and provide required verifications. Households with an older adult (60+) or a person with a disability can use a 200% FPL gross test with allowable deductions. These standards are set for October 1, 2024–September 30, 2025. (dhs.ri.gov)
- How much per month: Maximums for October 2024–September 2025 are: 1 292∗∗,2∗∗292**, 2 **536, 3 768∗∗,4∗∗768**, 4 **975, 5 1,158∗∗,6∗∗1,158**, 6 **1,390, 7 1,536∗∗,8∗∗1,536**, 8 **1,756, +$220 each additional person. Your amount depends on income/expenses. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Rural tip: Double your EBT at farmers markets with Bonus Bucks (a 100% match for fruits, veggies, and herbs). Bring your EBT card to the market info table; you’ll get SNAP tokens plus free Bonus Bucks tokens. (farmfreshri.org)
- Summer help for kids: SUN Bucks provides $120 per eligible child each summer; many families are auto‑enrolled if they receive SNAP, RI Works, or income‑eligible Medicaid. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Documents to gather: ID, Social Security numbers if you have them, proof of RI address, proof of income and expenses (rent, utilities, child support paid, child care costs).
- Timeline: Standard SNAP decisions usually take up to 30 days; expedited cases (very low income/assets) can be issued within 7 days. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Common pitfalls: Missing the interview call, not uploading proof of rent/heat, or forgetting to report child care costs can reduce benefits.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 for local pantries and meal sites, or use the Food Bank’s “Find Food” map; also apply for WIC if you’re pregnant or have kids under 5. (unitedwayri.org, rifoodbank.org, health.ri.gov)
SNAP quick tables
SNAP monthly maximums through September 2025
| Household size | Max SNAP |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
SNAP gross income guide (185% FPL) through September 2025
| Household size | Max gross monthly income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,322 |
| 2 | $3,152 |
| 3 | $3,981 |
| 4 | $4,810 |
WIC (Women, Infants & Children)
First step: Call RIDOH WIC Client Services at 401-222-4642 (Spanish 401-222-4623) or use the WIC prescreening tool to check eligibility and find a clinic near you. Rural South County moms can enroll at Wood River Health (401-387-9611 for WIC) or Thundermist in South County (401-767-4100 central line). (health.ri.gov, woodriverhealth.org, thundermisthealth.org)
- Who qualifies: Pregnant/postpartum people, infants, and children under 5 with income ≤ 185% FPL; many families on RIte Care qualify categorically. Rhode Island’s WIC income limits effective May 1, 2025–June 30, 2026 include monthly: 1 2,413∗∗,2∗∗2,413**, 2 **3,261, 3 4,109∗∗,4∗∗4,109**, 4 **4,957. (health.ri.gov)
- Monthly fruit/vegetable benefit through Sept 2025: Children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, fully or mostly breastfeeding $52. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- Farmers market boost: Spend WIC fruit/veg benefits directly with approved vendors; many summer markets also accept WIC/Senior farmers market benefits. (farmfreshri.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask WIC staff for referrals to SNAP outreach and local pantries; they can connect you to the Food Bank network and nutrition education. (rifoodbank.org)
Cash assistance and work supports
Rhode Island Works (TANF cash assistance)
First step: Apply with DHS online or by phone at 1-855-697-4347; ask about child care and bus passes tied to your employment plan. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Monthly cash benefit examples: Family of 2 701∗∗,3∗∗701**, 3 **865, 4 $990. Amounts adjust for income and housing situation. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Time limits: Adults can receive up to 60 months over a lifetime, with possible hardship extensions for disability, caring for a disabled family member, homelessness, or domestic violence. (dhs.ri.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- Work rules: Typically 20–30 hours/week for single parents depending on age of youngest child; two‑parent families have higher combined hour requirements if using a subsidy. Transportation allowances may be available for approved activities. (dhs.ri.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- Linked supports: RI Works recipients can get CCAP child care, SNAP, and career services.
- Timeline: Many approvals complete within 30–45 days, faster if you submit documents promptly.
- Common pitfalls: Missing the employment plan meeting; forgetting to submit attendance or updated contact info; not requesting a good cause waiver if domestic violence makes work unsafe.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about a hardship extension in writing, and contact the Family Violence Option Advocacy Program through DHS. For one‑time emergencies, ask your CAP agency about limited local funds. (dhs.ri.gov)
RI Works payment snapshot
| Household | Typical monthly benefit |
|---|---|
| 2 | $701 |
| 3 | $865 |
| 4 | $990 |
Temporary Caregiver Insurance (TCI) and TDI
First step: If you’re working and need paid time to bond with a new child or care for a seriously ill family member, file a TCI claim with the RI Department of Labor & Training (DLT). Apply online; have wage info and, for caregiving, a medical certification ready.
- Weekly benefit: Your benefit equals 4.62% of your highest quarter wages; for claims beginning July 1, 2025 or later, the maximum weekly is 1,103∗∗(upto∗∗1,103** (up to **1,489 with 5 dependents). Minimum weekly is $139. (dlt.ri.gov)
- Weeks available: TCI provides up to 7 weeks in 2025; it increases to 8 weeks in 2026 under state law. (webserver.rilegislature.gov)
- Taxes and timing: Benefits are taxable; typical processing is 2–3 weeks after DLT gets complete documentation. (dlt.ri.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your employer about any separate parental leave benefits or PTO banks; if denied, you can appeal DLT decisions.
Child care you can actually afford
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
First step: Apply with DHS and list the hours you work or attend an approved training/college program. If you’re a college student at CCRI, RIC, or URI, you may be eligible. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Eligibility: As of January 1, 2025, entry income is up to 261% FPL (3 = 69,557∗∗;4=∗∗69,557**; 4 = **83,912). Co‑pays are capped at 7% of income. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Who’s covered: Working parents (≥ 20 hours/week at minimum wage or more), approved job training/apprenticeships, degree programs at CCRI/RIC/URI, RI Works participants, and pregnant/parenting teens in DHS’s TFD program. Children must be under 13 (or up to 18 if a documented disability requires supervision). (dhs.ri.gov)
- Find a provider: Use the DHS child care search or contact BrightStars at (401) 739-6100 or (855) 398-7605 for help finding CCAP‑approved care near you. (earlylearningprograms.dhs.ri.gov, brightstars.org)
- Common pitfalls: Choosing a provider not approved for CCAP, co‑pays not paid directly to the provider, letting work hours drop below program rules.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask BrightStars to help locate a different CCAP‑approved program; apply for Head Start/Early Head Start where available. (dhs.ri.gov)
CCAP entry income examples (261% FPL)
| Household | Max annual income |
|---|---|
| 2 | $55,202 |
| 3 | $69,557 |
| 4 | $83,912 |
Head Start and Early Head Start (free)
First step: Contact your local Head Start provider through the Rhode Island Head Start Association to apply; programs prioritize families with the greatest need and maintain waitlists. (riheadstartassociation.org, dhs.ri.gov)
- Eligibility: No cost for families meeting criteria such as income at or below FPL, receiving RI Works/SNAP/SSI (child), foster care, or homelessness. Options include center‑based and home‑based services, and Early Head Start‑Child Care Partnership slots for infants/toddlers with CCAP. (dhs.ri.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Stay on the waitlist and ask about community pre‑K options via RIDE, or use CCAP to bridge care.
Health coverage and clinics
Medicaid/RIte Care and RIte Share
First step: Apply through HealthSource RI at 1-855-840-4774 or online; if you have employer coverage, ask about RIte Share premium assistance. (healthsourceri.com, eohhs.ri.gov)
- Eligibility: Parents with children under 18 up to 133% FPL, pregnant people up to 253% FPL, children up to 261% FPL; RIte Share can help pay your job‑based plan if you’re eligible. (eohhs.ri.gov)
- Covered benefits: Primary care, prescriptions, mental health and substance use services, dental, hospital and emergency care, transportation, and more. (eohhs.ri.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask HealthSource RI about marketplace plans with subsidies; Navigators offer free help statewide. (healthsourceri.com)
Katie Beckett (children with disabilities)
First step: If your child has significant medical needs, apply for Medicaid through Katie Beckett; only the child’s income is counted. Contact the Parent Consultant at 401-574-8474 for guidance and forms. (eohhs.ri.gov)
- Cost: No premiums for families.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about CEDAR Family Centers, Early Intervention, PASS, HBTS, and KIDS CONNECT supports for children with special needs. (eohhs.ri.gov)
Low‑ or no‑cost clinics serving rural areas
- Wood River Health: Hope Valley/Westerly; medical, dental, behavioral health; WIC onsite; main line 401-539-2461; WIC 401-387-9611. Discounts available based on income. (woodriverhealth.org)
- Thundermist Health Center – South County: Wakefield/Narragansett; medical, dental, behavioral; central line 401-767-4100; walk‑in Convenient Care daily. Discounts available. (thundermisthealth.org)
- South County Health Financial Assistance: Charity care for uninsured RI residents under set income levels; Patient Financial Advocacy 401-788-1383. (southcountyhealth.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask clinics for certified application counselor help with Medicaid/HSRI enrollment.
Heat and utilities
LIHEAP (heating assistance)
First step: Apply at your local CAP agency; for South County call Tri‑County’s Wakefield office 401-789-3016; for Kent County call Westbay 401-732-4660; for Newport County call East Bay CAP 401-847-7821. Online application is also available. Typical season runs September–May. (ricommunityaction.org, dhs.ri.gov)
- Eligibility: Household income ≤ 60% of Rhode Island median income. FFY2025 examples: 1 39,101∗∗,2∗∗39,101**, 2 **51,133, 3 63,164∗∗,4∗∗63,164**, 4 **75,196, 5 87,227∗∗,6∗∗87,227**, 6 **99,258. (dhs.ri.gov)
- What you may get: A primary grant based on income, family size, fuel type, and delivery needs; LIHEAP also opens doors to Weatherization and Heating System Repair/Replacement. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Timeline: Agencies generally begin processing in October; crisis cases are prioritized for shut‑off avoidance or restoration.
- Common pitfalls: Missing documents (ID, proof of address, recent utility bill), not updating your address with your CAP, or waiting until deep winter.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about the Good Neighbor Energy Fund (temporary crisis aid for households above LIHEAP income) and payment plans through Rhode Island Energy. (unitedwayri.org, rienergy.com)
LIHEAP income guide (FFY2025)
| Household | Max annual income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $39,101 |
| 2 | $51,133 |
| 3 | $63,164 |
| 4 | $75,196 |
| 5 | $87,227 |
| 6 | $99,258 |
Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF)
First step: Contact your CAP or dial 211 to see if you qualify; this is for households facing a temporary crisis who are above LIHEAP income guidelines (generally up to 300% FPL). (unitedwayri.org)
- Typical maximum grant: Up to $825 per heating season, depending on need and fuel type. Amounts and windows can change as funds allow. (business.providencechamber.com, rinewstoday.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Rhode Island Energy about arrearage forgiveness or payment plans; re‑check LIHEAP if your income or household size changes mid‑season. (rienergy.com)
Housing help
First step: If you’re unhoused or at immediate risk, call Coordinated Entry at 401-277-4316; they manage access to shelter and prevention resources statewide. (rihomeless.org)
- Section 8 vouchers and subsidized apartments: Rhode Island uses a Centralized Wait List for the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV). Apply online; you’ll pay 30–40% of your income toward rent if selected. For questions, call RIHousing HCV at 844-459-3699; Wait List line 401-443-1618. (rihousing.com)
- Eviction Prevention RI: Program funding is currently closed; for legal help if you have a pending eviction, call Rhode Island Legal Services (401-274-2652) or Center for Justice (401-491-1101). (rihousing.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Keep your Centralized Wait List profile updated to avoid removal; ask your town’s housing authority about project‑based Section 8 and public housing lists, which open separately. (rihousing.com)
Transportation
- RIPTA Reduced Fare for low‑income seniors and people with disabilities: Qualifying riders travel free with a Photo ID pass; processing fee is $10 (valid 2 years). Call 401-784-9500 ext. 2012. (ripta.com)
- RIPTA Low‑Income Program via partner agencies: If you are low‑income but not a senior/disabled, ask your CAP or housing/social‑service partner whether they participate in RIPTA’s discount fare program for clients. (ripta.com)
- RI Works participants: Ask your DHS worker about bus passes linked to your approved employment plan. (dhs.ri.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask local churches and CAPs about gas cards for verified work/medical appointments when available.
Phone and internet
- Lifeline: A federal discount of up to $9.25/month on phone or internet for income ≤ 135% FPG or participation in programs like SNAP or Medicaid. Apply through the National Verifier, then choose a participating company. For help, call 1-800-234-9473. (usac.org)
- Reality check: The Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024; Lifeline is still available in 2025. (economicprogressri.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Some carriers offer low‑cost plans for Lifeline‑eligible customers; ask providers serving rural RI about coverage and device options.
Child support services
First step: Apply with the RI Office of Child Support Services; non‑public assistance cases pay a $20 application fee. Main number 401-458-4400. (ocss.ri.gov)
- Annual federal fee: In “never assistance” cases, an annual 35∗∗feeisrequiredoncetheStatecollectsatleast∗∗35** fee is required once the State collects at least **500–$550 in support in a federal fiscal year; Rhode Island currently pays the federal share of this required fee. (ocss.ri.gov, regulations.justia.com)
- Self‑service: The automated Voice Response System provides payment history and court dates 24/7.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If seeking safety, ask for a Family Violence Option waiver; OCSS can suppress address info and adjust cooperation rules where appropriate. (dhs.ri.gov)
Taxes and cash back at filing
- Rhode Island Earned Income Credit: The state EITC is 16% of the federal amount for tax years beginning January 1, 2024 and after; fully refundable. File even if you owe no tax. (webserver.rilin.state.ri.us)
- Free tax prep: Ask 211 about VITA sites during tax season; many rural libraries and CAPs host clinics.
Local organizations serving rural towns
- Tri‑County Community Action (South County): Programs include heating help, weatherization, and family supports; South County line 401-789-3016. (ricommunityaction.org)
- Westbay Community Action (Kent County): Heat/utility help, food, and case management; main 401-732-4660. (ricommunityaction.org)
- East Bay Community Action Program (Newport/Bristol counties): Health, Head Start, and basic needs; main 401-847-7821. (ricommunityaction.org)
- Jonnycake Center of Westerly: Food pantry and emergency assistance for Westerly, Charlestown, Hopkinton, Richmond; Community Resources 401-377-8069 option 1. (jonnycake.org)
- Rhode Island Community Food Bank: Use the “Find Food” map or call 401-942-6325 for guidance. (rifoodbank.org)
- Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County: Local helpline 401-782-3990; statewide 1-800-494-8100. (dvrcsc.org)
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your Medicaid plan or clinic about affirming behavioral health. Thundermist offers inclusive care in South County; central line 401-767-4100. For protection orders or safety planning, the statewide Helpline is 1-800-494-8100. (thundermisthealth.org, ricadv.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or raising disabled children: Katie Beckett may cover your child regardless of family income; call 401-574-8474. Ask about PASS, HBTS, KIDS CONNECT, and CEDAR supports. (eohhs.ri.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: The RI Office of Veterans Services can connect you to VA care, childcare referrals, and housing help; main 401-921-2119. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Dorcas International (401-784-8600) and Progreso Latino (401-728-5920) offer legal help, ESL, employment, and food support; immigration status can affect some programs, but many services are available regardless of status. (diiri.org, progresolatino.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources (Narragansett Indian Tribe): Social Service Programs line 401-213-6880 serves members in Washington County; the Indian Health Center is 401-364-1263. LIHEAP contacts are listed for the Tribe. (narragansettindiannation.org, acf.hhs.gov)
- Single fathers: Most programs here are for all parents; RI Works, SNAP, CCAP, and Medicaid are gender‑neutral. Use the same application links and phone numbers.
- Language access: DHS and HealthSource RI offer help in multiple languages; WIC provides Spanish and Portuguese services and a WIC Shopper app. (healthsourceri.com, health.ri.gov)
Step‑by‑step: documents and application checklist
Bring copies or clear photos of the following. If you don’t have an item, submit your application and ask what else can verify it.
- Proof of identity: Driver’s license, state ID, or other photo ID.
- Proof of Rhode Island residence: Lease, utility bill, or mail with your name and address.
- Social Security numbers: For household members who have them.
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, self‑employment records, benefit letters (UI, TDI/TCI, child support), or a “no income” statement if applicable.
- Expenses: Rent or mortgage, utilities/heat, child care costs, child support paid, medical bills (for SNAP deductions where applicable).
- School enrollment or training verification: If applying for CCAP while in approved education or work training. (dhs.ri.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the interview: For SNAP and RI Works, answer unknown numbers during the application window or call back promptly.
- Choosing a non‑CCAP provider: Always confirm your child care is CCAP‑approved before the first day. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Not reporting child care costs: These can increase SNAP benefits; report and verify them. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Letting contact info get stale: Housing waitlists and program notices get mailed; update addresses to avoid removal. (provhousing.org)
- Waiting on heat help: Apply for LIHEAP early in the season; crisis funds are limited. (dhs.ri.gov)
Realistic timelines
- SNAP: 7 days for expedited; up to 30 days standard. (dhs.ri.gov)
- RI Works: Typically 30–45 days with complete paperwork. (dhs.ri.gov)
- CCAP: Varies by documentation and provider selection; plan for 1–3 weeks after you submit all verifications. (dhs.ri.gov)
- LIHEAP: Intake opens around September/October; allow 2–6 weeks depending on volume and crisis status. (dhs.ri.gov)
- TCI/TDI: 2–3 weeks after DLT receives complete info. (dlt.ri.gov)
Program tables for quick scanning
WIC monthly fruit and vegetable benefits (through Sept 2025)
| Category | Monthly amount |
|---|---|
| Child (1–5) | $26 |
| Pregnant/postpartum | $47 |
| Fully/mostly breastfeeding | $52 |
RIte Care/RIte Share eligibility thresholds
| Group | Income limit |
|---|---|
| Parents with children <18 | Up to 133% FPL |
| Pregnant people | Up to 253% FPL |
| Children <19 | Up to 261% FPL |
Selected CAP contacts for rural towns
| Region | Agency | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| South County (Washington County) | Tri‑County Community Action (Wakefield) | 401-789-3016 |
| Kent County | Westbay Community Action | 401-732-4660 |
| Newport County | East Bay CAP | 401-847-7821 |
Regional resources by area
- Washington County towns (Charlestown, Exeter, Hopkinton, Narragansett, New Shoreham, North Kingstown, Richmond, South Kingstown, Westerly): Start with Tri‑County (Wakefield 401-789-3016). For food, Jonnycake Center of Westerly (401-377-8069 option 1). For DV help, DVRC South County (401-782-3990). (ricommunityaction.org, jonnycake.org, dvrcsc.org)
- Kent County (Coventry, West Greenwich, Warwick): Westbay Community Action (401-732-4660). (ricommunityaction.org)
- Newport County (Jamestown, Little Compton, Middletown, Newport, Portsmouth, Tiverton): East Bay CAP (401-847-7821); Head Start sites operate across the East Bay. (ricommunityaction.org, ebcap.org)
What to say when you call
- Opening line: “I’m a single parent in [your town]. I need help with [food/child care/heat/housing]. I have [number] children, ages [x]. My monthly income is about $[amount]. Can we start an application today?”
- Ask directly: “Are there any waitlists, and what can I do while I’m waiting?”
- Write down: Names, phone numbers, and deadlines they give you. Keep a folder for your case numbers and letters.
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from Rhode Island DHS, EOHHS, RIDOH, DLT, USDA, HUD/RIHousing, and established nonprofits (United Way, CAP agencies). It follows our Editorial Standards and is maintained on a regular update cycle.
Last verified: September 2025
Next review: April 2026
Corrections and feedback: Email info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and update verified corrections within 48 hours per our policy.
Disclaimer
Important: Program rules, amounts, and application windows change. Always confirm details with the agency before you make decisions. We provide guidance, not legal advice, and cannot guarantee individual outcomes. For site security and your privacy, never post full SSNs or bank info in public forms; use official portals and phone lines listed above.
Sources
- SNAP eligibility and amounts: Rhode Island DHS SNAP Eligibility & How to Apply; 2024–2025 COLA benefit table. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Child care (CCAP): DHS press release on 261% FPL expansion and Family Eligibility page. (dhs.ri.gov)
- RI Works: DHS Eligibility & How to Apply; time limit and hardship extension regulations. (dhs.ri.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- Medicaid/RIte Care and RIte Share: EOHHS program pages and eligibility thresholds. (eohhs.ri.gov)
- WIC: RIDOH income guidelines (2025–2026) and USDA FY2025 CVB amounts. (health.ri.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- LIHEAP: DHS FFY2025 income guidelines and how to apply; Rhode Island Energy LIHEAP page. (dhs.ri.gov, rienergy.com)
- Good Neighbor Energy Fund: United Way RI overview; recent notices citing up to $825 grants. (unitedwayri.org, business.providencechamber.com)
- SUN Bucks (Summer EBT): DHS program page and issuance schedule. (dhs.ri.gov)
- TCI/TDI: DLT 2025 maximum benefit press release; benefit formula FAQ; state law increasing weeks. (dlt.ri.gov, webserver.rilegislature.gov)
- Housing: RIHousing HCV Program and Centralized Wait List information. (rihousing.com)
- RIPTA: Reduced Fare program and community site visits; Low‑Income Program for partner agencies. (ripta.com)
- Lifeline: USAC and FCC program pages; 2025 income thresholds. (usac.org, fcc.gov)
- Child support: OCSS application fee and annual fee notice; contact info. (ocss.ri.gov)
- Local resources: RICAA CAP directory; Jonnycake Center of Westerly; DVRC South County; RI Food Bank. (ricommunityaction.org, jonnycake.org, dvrcsc.org, rifoodbank.org)
- Farmers market incentives: Farm Fresh RI Bonus Bucks. (farmfreshri.org)
- Tribal resources: Narragansett Indian Tribe Social Services and Health Center; ACF tribal LIHEAP list. (narragansettindiannation.org, acf.hhs.gov)
If you find anything that looks off or a link that’s broken, please email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.
🏛️More Rhode Island Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Rhode Island
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
