Rhode Island Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff, Real‑World Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide focuses on real, local, nonprofit help in Rhode Island. It leaves out federal/state benefit programs so you can act fast with community resources that are open now.

Emergency help now

• Call the statewide 24/7 Victims of Crime and Domestic Violence Helpline: 1‑800‑494‑8100. For immediate danger, call 911. Rhode Island domestic violence agencies also answer chat and provide safe shelter. (bvacri.org)
• For a place to sleep tonight or shelter placement for families: Coordinated Entry Helpline (401) 277‑4316 (Crossroads/RI Coalition for the Homeless). (crossroadsri.org)
• One number for food, shelter, diapers, legal clinics, and more (24/7, multilingual): United Way 2‑1‑1 (text your ZIP to 898‑211 Mon–Fri 8:30–4:30). (unitedwayri.org)

Quick help box (save these)

• Utility shutoff or empty oil tank: Ask about the Good Neighbor Energy Fund (grants up to $825 depending on fuel type) via your local Community Action Program; if denied elsewhere, try Catholic Charities’ Keep the Heat On line (401) 421‑7833 ext. 207. (unitedwayri.org, heatri.com)
• Family homelessness or DV: Call Coordinated Entry (401) 277‑4316; for DV shelter or safety planning call 1‑800‑494‑8100 or Sojourner House 24/7 (401) 765‑3232. (crossroadsri.org, dvrcsc.org)
• Food fast: Rhode Island Community Food Bank network pantries (serve an average 84,400 people/month). Use 2‑1‑1, or go directly to MLK Community Center pantry (Newport County) or McAuley House meal site (Providence). (rifoodbank.org, mlkccenter.org, tari.myresourcedirectory.com)
• Diapers/baby wipes: Project Undercover partners statewide—contact a listed partner like Progreso Latino (401) 728‑5920 or Mary House (401) 274‑6286. (projectundercover.org)
• LGBTQ+ affirming care, contraception or STI care today: Open Door Health, (401) 648‑4700, 7 Central St., Providence. Walk‑in screening available. (odhpvd.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Why these community resources matter in Rhode Island

• Food insecurity is at a record high: nearly 38% of households struggled to afford food in 2024. The Food Bank’s network served an average of 84,400 Rhode Islanders each month and distributed 18.3 million pounds of food in FY2024. Expect demand to stay high through 2025. (rhodeislandcurrent.com, rifoodbank.org, pbn.com)
• It costs about $83,239/year\ast \ast forasingleparentwithtwokidstomeetbasicneedsinRI(housing,childcare,transportation,utilities,healthcare).Asingleadultneedsnearly\ast \ast$39,741/year. Community nonprofits are filling the gap when budgets don’t stretch. (rhodeislandcurrent.com)
• United Way of Rhode Island’s 211 and “Point” lines handled about 213,000 contacts in 2024 and delivered a strong economic return to the state, connecting people to food, childcare, energy help, and more. (unitedwayri.org)

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Utility and heating help from charities (not state programs)

Start here if you’re staring at a shutoff notice or your oil tank is empty.

Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF) – one‑time grant for energy bills

Most single‑mom households in temporary crisis can qualify if your income is above LIHEAP but at or below 300% FPL. Max grants for 2024–25 campaign year: $600\ast \ast (electric/gas),\ast \ast$825 (oil/propane), $650\ast \ast (wood),\ast \ast$600 (kerosene). Payments go directly to your utility/fuel vendor. (unitedwayri.org)

• Eligibility highlights:
  • Temporary financial hardship and household income at/below 300% FPL and above LIHEAP’s limit.
  • One grant per season unless extenuating hardship. (unitedwayri.org)
  • Example 300% FPL income caps used by the fund include $93,600\ast \ast (familyof4)and\ast \ast$125,880 (family of 6). (business.providencechamber.com)
• How to apply:
  • Contact your local Community Action Program (CAP) or dial 2‑1‑1 to find it; bring photo ID, proof of income, household members, and current heat‑related bill. (unitedwayri.org)
• Reality check:
  • Winter volume is heavy—processing can slow. Ask your CAP if they can add a note for shutoff‑prevention or partial payment while your file is reviewed.
• What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Apply to Catholic Charities’ Keep the Heat On (below); ask your parish St. Vincent de Paul conference; or speak with your utility’s hardship team about a payment plan while you pursue grants. (dioceseofprovidence.org)

Keep the Heat On – Catholic Charities, Diocese of Providence

If you’ve been denied or exhausted LIHEAP/GNEF and still face a heat emergency, this fund may help with a one‑time payment. You must show denial/award letters from LIHEAP and GNEF, your current bill, and household income details. Call (401) 421‑7833 ext. 207. (heatri.com)

• Where to apply and what to bring:
  • Call the Providence main line above or the satellite outreach office for your county (numbers listed on the Diocese “Outreach Centers” page). Have denial letters, ID, bill, and income ready. (dioceseofprovidence.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Ask your parish Society of St. Vincent de Paul for a home visit and possible fuel or utility assistance; then call 2‑1‑1 for additional local funds that may be active (town trusts, faith‑based small grants). (na0.icarol.info, unitedwayri.org)

If you’re under LIHEAP income but using charity help for speed

Even though this guide skips state benefits, know the LIHEAP income screen often used by agencies: up to 60% of RI State Median Income (SMI) (e.g., household of 3: $63,164/year\ast \ast ;of4:\ast \ast$75,196/year, effective Oct 2024). If you’re under these numbers, ask your CAP to fast‑track LIHEAP while also applying for GNEF/KTHO. (rienergy.com)

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Rent, deposits, and emergency housing from charities

When you’re days from eviction or already doubled‑up, act in this order.

1) Call Coordinated Entry & Crossroads for placement and navigation

• Statewide Coordinated Entry (families and survivors too): (401) 277‑4316. This line is the front door to emergency family shelter and housing navigation. Crossroads RI main: (401) 521‑2255. (crossroadsri.org)
• Crossroads shelters include the Citizens Bank Family Center (up to 15 families) and a women’s shelter (41 beds). Their DV program shelters 26 survivors at a confidential site. (crossroadsri.org)
• What to bring to intake: IDs for you and children, recent notices (eviction/utility), income proof, childcare details, and any disability or DV documentation (if safe to provide).
• Reality check: Shelter is limited. Family rooms fill quickly; be clear if you have infants, school‑aged kids, or medical needs so the team can triage. (homelessshelterdirectory.org)
• Plan B: Ask Coordinated Entry about motel vouchers (if any), warming centers in winter, and day programs. Also call House of Hope CDC (401) 463‑3324 to connect with Street Outreach or Shower to Empower while you wait. (thehouseofhopecdc.org)

2) Charities that can pay a piece of rent, security deposit, or basic needs

• Amos House (Providence): emergency assistance for rent, utilities, IDs/birth certificates, reunification programs (including mother‑child), and mail service. Main (401) 272‑0220; email gethelp@amoshouse.com. Hours: Mon–Thu 8–4; Fri until 1. (amoshouse.com)
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul (parish‑based): home visits and short‑term help with rent/utility arrears, furniture, clothing, and food. Call your local conference; statewide office (401) 490‑0822, 25 Webb St., Cranston. Parish examples: St. Raymond pantry (Providence) (401) 351‑4224; St. Philip (Greenville) (401) 949‑2949. Funds vary; decisions are local. (na0.icarol.info, tari.myresourcedirectory.com)
• Jonnycake Center of Westerly (Westerly/Charlestown/Richmond/Hopkinton): one‑time crisis help (housing, utilities, heating, medical/education), full‑week pantry monthly, vouchers for clothing/furniture. Community Resources (401) 377‑8069 (opt. 1). (jonnycake.org)
• Jonnycake Center for Hope (South Kingstown/Narragansett/Jamestown/Block Island): housing application help, security deposits and overdue rent assistance (as funds allow), twice‑monthly “Market” shopping, free tax clinic. Main (401) 789‑1559. (jonnycakecenter.org)
• Operation Stand Down RI (veterans/SSVF): housing retention/rapid re‑housing for eligible veteran families; Johnston office (401) 383‑4730. (osdri.org)
• Providence Rescue Mission: 24/7 emergency shelter and meals if you’re unsheltered while working on housing; 627 Cranston St., Providence, (401) 274‑8861. (providencerescuemission.org)
• House of Hope CDC (Kent/Providence counties): outreach, Shower to Empower, housing programs; admin (401) 463‑3324; 3188 Post Rd., Warwick. (thehouseofhopecdc.org)
• Lucy’s Hearth (Newport County): 24‑hour family shelter and transitional housing; 19 Valley Rd., Middletown, (401) 847‑2021. Intake often starts via 2‑1‑1 Coordinated Entry. (lucyshearth.org)
• WARM/Welcome House of South County (Peace Dale): 18‑bed shelter for adults, transitional housing, and soup kitchen (re‑opening to community); main (401) 782‑4770 (Welcome House), WARM Center (401) 596‑9276 (Westerly). (warmcenter.org, oceanchamber.org)
• Salvation Army Corps (rent/utility help when funds allow, food, vouchers): Providence (401) 831‑1119, Pawtucket (401) 723‑9533, Newport (401) 846‑3234. Call first; assistance varies by location and funding. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Ask your town’s clergy association and United Way 2‑1‑1 about one‑time local funds (discretionary “pastor funds,” Rotary/Elks, or small foundation grants). If you get a partial pledge, many landlords will accept a payment plan in writing—ask your case manager to help you negotiate. (unitedwayri.org)

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Food, meals, and groceries (fast + ongoing)

Rhode Island’s food‑bank network is robust but busy. Go early in the day, bring ID and bags, and ask for “specials” (produce lines, protein days).

• Rhode Island Community Food Bank: network of 147 member agencies; averaging 84,400 people served monthly; 18.3 million pounds distributed in FY2024. Use agency finder or dial 2‑1‑1. (rifoodbank.org, pbn.com)
• McAuley House (Providence): daily breakfast 8:00–9:30 a.m., lunch 11:15 a.m.–1:00 p.m., plus take‑away evening meal and weekly pantry; 622 Elmwood Ave., (401) 941‑9013. (resources.riphi.org)
• MLK Community Center (Newport County): on‑site pantry Mon–Fri with evening hours Wed; hot breakfast Mon–Fri; lunch Tue/Thu/Fri; mobile pantry routes. 20 Dr. Marcus Wheatland Blvd., (401) 846‑4828. (mlkccenter.org)
• Progreso Latino Food Pantry (Central Falls): pantry hours weekly; bilingual assistance; (401) 728‑5920; 626 Broad St. (progresolatino.org)
• Providence Rescue Mission (Providence): free daily meals and food boxes; open 24/7; (401) 274‑8861. (providencerescuemission.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Ask about home‑delivery options (Food 2 Friends at MLK for homebound) or mobile pantries. If you have infants/toddlers, combine pantry trips with diaper resources (below). (mlkccenter.org)

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Diapers, wipes, baby supplies

• Project Undercover (statewide): supplies diapers, wipes, socks, and underwear through partner agencies (they do not give directly to individuals). Search by ZIP and contact a listed partner such as Progreso Latino (401) 728‑5920 (ext. per website) or Mary House (401) 274‑6286 (Providence). (projectundercover.org)
• Children’s Friend (statewide): early childhood and family support programs serving 20,000+ children and families; ask about emergency baby needs via your local site. (childrensfriendri.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Ask your pediatric clinic’s social worker; many keep limited diaper supplies. Also call 2‑1‑1 for smaller parish‑based baby closets. (unitedwayri.org)

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Clothing, furniture, and household setups after a move

• RI Donation Exchange (furniture bank managed by CCAP): discounted furniture with an added discount for referred households; no item priced over $650\ast \ast ;curbsidedeliveryavailablefor\ast \ast$50. New location: 225 Dupont Dr., Providence; (401) 831‑5511. Requires agency referral for deepest discounts. (comcap.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul (parish vouchers): request clothing and furniture vouchers during a home visit; local conference numbers vary (examples above). (na0.icarol.info)
• The Furniture Project / CPG Foundation Furniture Bank: free furniture delivered by appointment through referring case managers; CPG phone (401) 541‑8561. Ask your shelter or case worker for a referral. (cpgfoundationfurniturebank.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Ask your shelter/housing case manager to write a “household essentials” letter for thrift‑store vouchers (Salvation Army, SVDP) and check church Facebook pages for local furniture drives. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

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Domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking

• 24/7 statewide DV & Victims of Crime Helpline: 1‑800‑494‑8100. Live chat also available. (bvacri.org)
• Sojourner House (statewide): 24/7 housing hotline (401) 765‑3232; drop‑in center (401) 861‑6191; emergency/transitional/permanent housing, legal advocacy, immigration advocacy, LGBTQ+ services. Providence offices. (domesticshelters.org)
• Women’s Resource Center (Newport/Bristol Counties): 24/7 hotline (401) 846‑5263; shelter, advocacy, counseling. (wrcnbc.org)
• Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center (Pawtucket/Central Falls region & statewide): office (401) 723‑3057; collaborates on the statewide 1‑800‑494‑8100 line. (bvacri.org)
• DVRC of South County (Washington County): helpline (401) 782‑3990; 24/7 hotline 1‑800‑494‑8100; safe home, transitional housing, court advocacy. (dvrcsc.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Ask the hotline to connect you with a shelter in another RI county or neighboring state, or for safety planning while you remain with family/friends.

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Child care, jobs, and stabilizing your income (community‑based)

These are nonprofit options that either discount services or braid in scholarships and coaching.

• Genesis Center (Providence): 5‑Star Early Learning Center (accepts subsidies); job training in health care/culinary/education with coaching; reported $19.50/hour average starting wage among 2023 placements. Early Learning Center (401) 781‑6110. (gencenter.org)
• United Way VITA (free tax prep): millions back into households; 2024 refunds exceeded $18 million to working Rhode Islanders—ask 211 for the nearest site during tax season. (unitedwayri.org)
• Food/urban agriculture supports: Southside Community Land Trust (Providence) offers member benefits, seed/plant events, and low‑cost produce connections to stretch your food budget; main (401) 273‑9419. (southsideclt.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Ask these programs for written proof of enrollment to show your landlord or utility when negotiating payment plans; many creditors will accept active program participation as a sign you’re stabilizing.

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Hygiene and period products

• Amenity Aid (RI’s hygiene bank): distributes soap, shampoo, period products, deodorant and more through partner agencies and monthly Soap Distribution Days (not to individuals). Ask your shelter/agency to connect or call 2‑1‑1 for a partner site. (amenityaid.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work:
  • Many food pantries (MLK, McAuley House) also stock basic hygiene items—ask at check‑in. (mlkccenter.org, tari.myresourcedirectory.com)

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Diverse communities: tailored, local support

• LGBTQ+ single mothers
  • Open Door Health offers affirming primary care, contraception, PrEP/PEP, gender‑affirming care, and walk‑in STI screens. (401) 648‑4700, 7 Central St., Providence. (odhpvd.org)
  • Sojourner House provides LGBTQ+‑inclusive DV/housing services. Hotline (401) 765‑3232. (domesticshelters.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or children with disabilities
  • Family Service of Rhode Island (FSRI) operates youth/family crisis response and stabilization; Intake (401) 519‑2280, crisis (401) 854‑6678. Ask about care coordination that can unlock other community supports. (familyserviceri.org)
• Veteran single mothers
  • Operation Stand Down RI offers housing assistance (SSVF), employment help, legal clinics, and a food/hygiene pantry for veterans. 1010 Hartford Ave., Johnston; (401) 383‑4730. (osdri.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms
  • Dorcas International Institute of RI: immigration legal help (including VAWA, U/T visas), ESL, employment services; South Campus (401) 784‑8600. (diiri.org, immigrationadvocates.org)
  • Progreso Latino (Central Falls): food pantry, immigration help, and domestic‑violence program AYÚDAME for Latinx survivors; (401) 728‑5920. (progresolatino.org, progresolatino.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources
  • Narragansett Indian Tribe Office of Social Service Programs serves eligible Tribal Members in Washington County and on the reservation with housing/utility/food assistance; (401) 213‑6880. Health Center (401) 364‑1263 (Charlestown). (narragansettindiannation.org)
• Rural single moms (South County, Washington County)
  • Jonnycake Center for Hope (South County) and WARM/Welcome House (Peace Dale/Westerly) provide pantry, emergency funds, and shelter. Keep gas money and distances in mind; call ahead for hours and eligibility. (jonnycakecenter.org, warmcenter.org)
• Single fathers
  • All of the programs above serve families regardless of gender. When calling, state “I’m a single parent with minor children” and ask for the family services team.
• Language access
  • United Way 211 uses translation services; Progreso Latino, Dorcas International, and Sojourner House provide bilingual staff. (unitedwayri.org, progresolatino.org, immigrationadvocates.org)

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Realistic timelines and how to move faster

• Energy help: GNEF decisions depend on CAP workload; winter is slower. Bring complete documents to avoid delays (ID, income, household proof, bill). (unitedwayri.org)
• Transitional housing: McAuley Village (Providence) often has a 6–12 month waitlist; submit a complete application and keep your phone on for interviews. (integrasearch.findhelp.com)
• Food pantries: Many allow one full shop per month (MLK) with additional produce days—ask about mobile pantry stops near you. (mlkccenter.org)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Turning in partial paperwork.
  • Utility funds (GNEF/KTHO) require complete documents, including denial/award letters. If you can’t find something, ask for acceptable substitutes. (unitedwayri.org, heatri.com)
• Waiting for the “perfect” time to call.
  • Family shelter beds turn over fast. Put your name on the Coordinated Entry list immediately and answer unknown numbers while you’re waiting. (crossroadsri.org)
• Not naming safety risks.
  • If DV or stalking is part of the picture, say that first. It can change your placement options and speed. (bvacri.org)
• Assuming you “won’t qualify.”
  • GNEF helps up to 300% FPL—many working families qualify when a temporary crisis hits. Ask. (unitedwayri.org)

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Application checklist (print this)

Bring originals or clear photos; keep them in a zip folder on your phone.

• Photo ID for you; IDs or birth certificates for kids.
• Proof of all household income (pay stubs, benefits letters) for the last 30–60 days.
• Lease or proof of address.
• Most recent utility or fuel bill (or delivery slip).
• Shutoff notice, eviction notice, or other proof of crisis (if any).
• For Keep the Heat On: LIHEAP and GNEF denial/award letters. (heatri.com)
• For shelter/housing: list of prior addresses, landlord contact, and any disability/DV documentation you choose to share for placement.

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Tables you can scan fast

A. Utility & Energy Help (Charities Only)

B. Meals & Food (Open now)

C. Family Shelter & Housing Navigation

D. Diapers & Baby Items

E. Furniture & Household Goods

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How to apply (step‑by‑step, short)

• Utilities (GNEF):
  • Call 2‑1‑1 to locate your CAP and ask for a GNEF appointment.
  • Bring: photo ID, proof of all household income, household composition, current heat/electric/gas bill, and a hardship explanation letter.
  • Ask if a vendor protection note can be sent while your case is reviewed. (unitedwayri.org)
• Keep the Heat On:
  • Call (401) 421‑7833 ext. 207. Have your LIHEAP and GNEF denial/award letters ready, plus your bill and income details. (heatri.com)
• Family shelter:
  • Call (401) 277‑4316 now. Keep your phone on and voice mailbox free. If you miss a call, you can lose an opening. (crossroadsri.org)
• Diapers:
  • Search Project Undercover partners by ZIP and call the nearest site to check pick‑up hours and documents (usually ID and child’s birth certificate/insurance card). (projectundercover.org)

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Real‑world examples

• Heat crisis resolved: A Providence mom with two kids, just over LIHEAP income, received a $825 oil grant from the Good Neighbor Energy Fund and avoided a shut‑off in January after applying through her CAP. Amount limits and fuel‑type caps are posted by United Way for the 2024–25 season. (unitedwayri.org)
• Family shelter in Newport County: After a motel stay ended, a Middletown mom called Coordinated Entry and was placed at Lucy’s Hearth, which provides 24‑hour family shelter with on‑site children’s programming while staff work on permanent housing. (lucyshearth.org)
• Stretching the food budget: With pantry lines longer this year (network serves 84,400/month), a Narragansett mom uses the MLK on‑site pantry once a month and adds “Produce to the People” Thursday produce distribution to keep fruits/vegetables on the table. (rifoodbank.org, mlkccenter.org)

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Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Be ready for waitlists. Transitional housing like McAuley Village commonly has a 6–12 month wait; complete applications get called first. Keep your voicemail set up. (integrasearch.findhelp.com)
• Avoid paying “application fees” to third parties. The charities listed here do not charge you to apply.
• Keep documents handy. A missing pay stub or denial letter is the #1 reason files stall.
• Tell providers if you have infants, disabilities, or safety risks. It can change your placement priority.
• Verify hours before you go. Pantry and soup‑kitchen times can shift with funding or holidays; websites list current hours. (mlkccenter.org, resources.riphi.org)

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Resources by region (scan and call)

• Providence/Metro: McAuley House (401) 941‑9013; Sojourner House (401) 861‑6191 / hotline (401) 765‑3232; Providence Rescue Mission (401) 274‑8861; Catholic Charities Outreach (One Cathedral Sq.) (401) 421‑7833. (resources.riphi.org, domesticshelters.org, providencerescuemission.org, dioceseofprovidence.org)
• Kent County/West Bay: House of Hope CDC (Warwick) (401) 463‑3324; Catholic Charities Kent County site (West Warwick Senior Center) (401) 823‑6211. (thehouseofhopecdc.org, dioceseofprovidence.org)
• South County: Welcome House (Peace Dale) (401) 782‑4770; Jonnycake Center for Hope (South Kingstown) (401) 789‑1559. (warmcenter.org, jonnycakecenter.org)
• Newport County: MLK Community Center pantry (401) 846‑4828; Lucy’s Hearth (401) 847‑2021. (mlkccenter.org, lucyshearth.org)
• Blackstone Valley: Progreso Latino pantry (401) 728‑5920; Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center (401) 723‑3057. (progresolatino.org, bvacri.org)

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What churches and faith‑based charities can do for you (today)

• Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP): Parish conferences can pay a utility portion, provide food vouchers, or deliver furniture/clothing vouchers after a home visit. Start with your local parish office; statewide office (401) 490‑0822. (na0.icarol.info)
• The Salvation Army (Providence, Pawtucket, Newport Corps): seasonal rent/utility aid, food, and holiday programs as funds allow. State contacts and addresses listed on the RI page; Providence (401) 831‑1119. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Catholic Charities/Diocese of Providence (Outreach Centers): Keep the Heat On, emergency help, baby supplies (St. Gabriel’s Call), and referrals by county (numbers listed on the Outreach Centers page). Main (401) 421‑7833. (dioceseofprovidence.org)
• Episcopal Charities (grantmaker): funds many of the shelters/pantries here—ask your caseworker if your local agency has Episcopal Charities support to meet a one‑time need. (episcopalri.org)

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“What if this doesn’t work?” (Plan B for each category)

• Utilities: Request a budget plan or medical protection with your utility while your GNEF/KTHO file is pending; ask your doctor’s office for a utility hardship letter, if applicable. (unitedwayri.org)
• Rent: Ask your landlord in writing for a payment plan once you have proof of pending pledges (SVDP/Salvation Army/United Way referrals). Keep copies.
• Shelter: Ask Coordinated Entry about motel overflow or another county. In winter, use RIEMA’s warming hubs for safe overnight space if necessary. (riema.ri.gov)
• Food: Combine pantry schedule + meal sites + mobile pantry. Ask about “produce only” lines to supplement a once‑monthly shop. (mlkccenter.org)
• Diapers: If a partner is out of a size, ask for a second partner nearby from the Project Undercover list. (projectundercover.org)

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Resource list (name • descriptive link • phone • address)

• United Way of Rhode Island 211 — 24/7 connection to local help Get help with 211 (United Way of RI) • 2‑1‑1 • 50 Valley St., Providence, RI 02909, (401) 444‑0600. (unitedwayri.org)
• Good Neighbor Energy Fund — energy grants for households in temporary crisis Good Neighbor Energy Fund details and amounts • Apply via local CAP (dial 2‑1‑1). (unitedwayri.org)
• Catholic Charities/Keep the Heat On — heat emergencies when other aid exhausted Apply for Help (Keep the Heat On) • (401) 421‑7833 ext. 207 • One Cathedral Sq., Providence, RI 02903. (heatri.com)
• Salvation Army (RI Area) — emergency assistance, food, vouchers (availability varies) Find your RI Salvation Army Corps • Providence (401) 831‑1119 • 386 Broad St., Providence; Pawtucket (401) 723‑9533 • 102 High St.; Newport (401) 846‑3234 • 51 Memorial Blvd. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Crossroads Rhode Island — shelter/housing (call Coordinated Entry) Get help (Crossroads) • Coordinated Entry (401) 277‑4316 • 160 Broad St., Providence. (crossroadsri.org)
• Sojourner House — DV/SA/HT services and housing Sojourner House services • 24/7 (401) 765‑3232 • 304 Pearl St. (office), Providence. (resources.riphi.org)
• Women’s Resource Center (Newport/Bristol) — DV services WRC get help • (401) 846‑5263 • Newport & Bristol County offices. (wrcnbc.org)
• Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center — DV services (Pawtucket/Central Falls) BVAC helpline • Office (401) 723‑3057; 24/7 1‑800‑494‑8100. (bvacri.org)
• MLK Community Center — pantry, mobile pantry, meals (Newport County) MLK hunger services • (401) 846‑4828 • 20 Dr. Marcus Wheatland Blvd., Newport. (mlkccenter.org)
• McAuley House/McAuley Ministries — daily meals & services; McAuley Village transitional housing for moms and kids McAuley House meals • (401) 941‑9013 • 622 Elmwood Ave., Providence; McAuley Village info. (resources.riphi.org, integrasearch.findhelp.com)
• Lucy’s Hearth — family shelter & programs (Newport County) About Lucy’s Hearth • (401) 847‑2021 • 19 Valley Rd., Middletown. (lucyshearth.org)
• Welcome House of South County (WARM) — shelter & transitional housing (South County) Welcome House programs • (401) 782‑4770 • 8 North Rd., Peace Dale. (warmcenter.org)
• Providence Rescue Mission — 24/7 emergency shelter and meals PRM services • (401) 274‑8861 • 627 Cranston St., Providence. (providencerescuemission.org)
• House of Hope CDC — outreach, Shower to Empower, housing Contact House of Hope • (401) 463‑3324 • 3188 Post Rd., Warwick. (thehouseofhopecdc.org)
• Project Undercover — diapers/wipes/socks/underwear for kids via partners Get Help (Project Undercover) • Partner agencies listed by ZIP. (projectundercover.org)
• RI Donation Exchange (CCAP) — furniture bank Donation Exchange details • (401) 831‑5511 • 225 Dupont Dr., Providence. (comcap.org)
• Open Door Health — LGBTQ+ and community health clinic Open Door Health • (401) 648‑4700 • 7 Central St., Providence. (odhpvd.org)
• Operation Stand Down RI — veteran housing and support OSDRI services • (401) 383‑4730 • 1010 Hartford Ave., Johnston. (osdri.org)
• Dorcas International Institute — immigration legal aid, ESL, jobs Dorcas International contact • (401) 784‑8600 • 645/220 Elmwood Ave. campuses, Providence. (diiri.org)
• Narragansett Indian Tribe — social services & health center (Tribal Members) OSSP (Narragansett) • (401) 213‑6880 • Charlestown. (narragansettindiannation.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Rhode Island Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

• Program amounts, hours, and eligibility change. Always confirm with the organization before you apply or travel.
• We link to official/nonprofit sources; if a link is broken, call the phone number listed.
• Health and safety: If you believe you or your child are in danger, call 911. For mental health crises, call or text 988 (national hotline), or contact your local provider.
• Website security: Do not email Social Security Numbers or full medical records. Share sensitive documents only through secure channels requested by the agency.

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Sources and verification notes (selected)

• United Way 211 (24/7, multilingual; texting info). (unitedwayri.org)
• United Way of RI: GNEF eligibility and 2024–25 max grants by fuel; fund statistics. (unitedwayri.org)
• Providence Chamber/GNEF: 300% FPL examples, up to $825 grant. (business.providencechamber.com)
• Rhode Island Community Food Bank: network scale (147 agencies), 84,400 people/month, 18.3M pounds FY2024. (rifoodbank.org, pbn.com)
• Food insecurity rate 38% and monthly service numbers; news coverage. (rhodeislandcurrent.com, wpri.com)
• Economic Progress Institute: basic‑needs cost ($83,239\ast \ast forsingleparentwithtwokids;\ast \ast$39,741 single adult). (rhodeislandcurrent.com)
• Keep the Heat On (Diocese of Providence): application steps and required documents. (heatri.com)
• Crossroads RI: emergency shelter capacities and contact; family Coordinated Entry line. (crossroadsri.org)
• McAuley House: meal times/contacts; McAuley Village application notes, typical wait. (resources.riphi.org, integrasearch.findhelp.com)
• MLK Community Center: pantry and meal hours. (mlkccenter.org)
• Project Undercover: partner‑based distribution. (projectundercover.org)
• Sojourner House; BVAC; DVRC South County; Women’s Resource Center: hotlines/services. (domesticshelters.org, bvacri.org, dvrcsc.org, wrcnbc.org)
• Open Door Health: LGBTQ+ clinic services and hours. (odhpvd.org)
• Genesis Center: childcare/training and 2023 wage outcomes. (gencenter.org)
• RI Donation Exchange (furniture bank): prices/delivery and new address. (comcap.org)
• Providence Rescue Mission: 24/7 shelter and meal services. (providencerescuemission.org)
• House of Hope CDC: outreach/housing contact. (thehouseofhopecdc.org)
• Operation Stand Down RI (veterans): services and contact. (osdri.org)
• LIHEAP/SMI income thresholds context (effective Oct 2024). (rienergy.com)

If you find out‑of‑date info, please email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and update within 48–72 hours.

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