Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Rhode Island

Last Updated on November 19, 2025 by Rachel

Last updated: September 2025

Quick Help Box — read this first

• If you are in immediate danger: Call 911. Tell the dispatcher if there are weapons or children present.
• Rhode Island 24/7 Victims of Crime Helpline: 1-800-494-8100 for crisis support, safety planning, shelter access, and a confidential live chat at Helpline RI website (chat button on the right). The Helpline is run in partnership with Day One, RICADV, and Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center. (helplineri.com)
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233, text START to 88788, or use live chat at thehotline.org. Services are free, confidential, and available in 170+ languages. (thehotline.org, acf.hhs.gov)
• Rhode Island statewide domestic violence member agencies: A trained advocate can connect you to emergency shelter and legal help. See hotlines by region in “Local Help” below. The statewide Helpline is also on online chat 24/7. (ricadv.org)
• Tech-safety tip: Use a device your abuser cannot access. For safer browsing tips and the free “Tech Safety” app, see the National Network to End Domestic Violence Safety Net resources. (nnedv.org)

---

Emergency section — what to do right now

• Get somewhere safe if you can: A neighbor’s home, public place, police station, or hospital. If you cannot leave safely, move to a room with an exit and without weapons.
• Call the 24/7 statewide Helpline: 1-800-494-8100 for fast access to Rhode Island shelter openings and transportation help from local agencies. (helplineri.com)
• Consider a same‑day temporary restraining order (TRO): Family or District Court can issue a temporary order the same day if the judge believes you or your child is in danger. See “Protection Orders” below. (womenslaw.org)
• If children may be at risk: Report concerns to DCYF’s 24/7 hotline 1-800-742-4453 (1-800-RI-CHILD). You can report anonymously. (dcyf.ri.gov)
• If you need sexual assault support: Call 1-800-494-8100 for an advocate or contact Day One at 401-421-4100 during business hours. Women & Infants Hospital has a 24/7 Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program. (dayone.gladworks.com, womenandinfants.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a line is busy: Hang up and call back, or try the National Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. (thehotline.org)

---

Why this guide is different

No fluff: This page is a practical hub focused on Rhode Island contacts, dollar amounts, timelines, and steps. It is built from official Rhode Island government and trusted nonprofit sources and follows ASingleMother.org’s editorial standards. See “About This Guide” near the end.

---

Table — fastest emergency contacts (save these)

---

Protection orders in Rhode Island — quick path to safety

Start here: If you need protection today, go to the correct court or call a court advocate to walk you through.

• Family Court for family/household relationships and when a party is a juvenile: Garrahy Judicial Complex (Providence). Hours 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Restraining order processing stops after 3:00 p.m. Main line 401-458-3200; Restraining Order Clerk 401-414-7079. (courts.ri.gov)
• District Court for dating/non‑family relationships: File where you live; no filing fee. (courts.ri.gov)
• What the orders can do: Stay‑away/no‑abuse; exclusive home possession; temporary custody; and firearm surrender within 24 hours with proof to court within 72 hours. Violations of Family or District Court orders are criminal. (webserver.rilin.state.ri.us, ricadv.org)

Table — which court, cost, and timelines

Firearms surrender rule: When a protective order issues, the defendant must surrender all firearms within 24 hours to police or an FFL and file a receipt within 72 hours. Courts can also require surrender before notice, but a full hearing must be held within 15 days. Storage fees cannot be charged to the restrained person. (webserver.rilin.state.ri.us, webserver.rilegislature.gov)

Courthouse contacts:

• Garrahy Judicial Complex (Providence): One Dorrance Plaza, Providence, RI; Family Court 401-458-3200; RO Clerk 401-414-7079. (courts.ri.gov)
• Noel Judicial Complex (Kent): 222 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI; Family Court 401-822-6725. (courts.ri.gov)
• McGrath Judicial Complex (Washington County): 4800 Tower Hill Rd, Wakefield, RI; Family Court 401-782-4111. (courts.ri.gov)
• Murray Judicial Complex (Newport): 45 Washington Square, Newport, RI; Family Court 401-841-8340. (courts.ri.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call a court advocate at your courthouse (numbers above) or the 24/7 Helpline 1-800-494-8100 for help filing the same day or to find a safer courthouse. (ricadv.org)

---

Local help — confidential Rhode Island agencies

These trusted nonprofits provide safety planning, emergency shelter, housing help, counseling, court advocacy, and children’s services. If lines are busy, call the statewide Helpline 1-800-494-8100 to be routed. (helplineri.com)

Table — member and partner agencies (by region)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Try 211 for additional shelters and ride assistance, or ask the Helpline for transportation and safety planning support. (unitedwayri.org)

---

Money help right now — food, cash, child care, and medical

SNAP (food help)

• Maximum monthly benefit amounts in RI through September 30, 2025: household of 1 $292\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$536, 3 $768\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$975, 5 $1,158\ast \ast ,6\ast \ast$1,390, 7 $1,536\ast \ast ,8\ast \ast$1,756; add $220 per extra person. (dhs.ri.gov)
• Expedited SNAP: If you have little cash and low income, you may qualify for benefits within 7 days. RI DHS must decide expedited cases within 7 days and regular cases within 30 days. (dhs.ri.gov)
• Who qualifies: In Rhode Island, households without an elder/disabled member can qualify up to 185% FPL gross; with elder/disabled up to 200% FPL gross, plus a net test. See DHS income chart (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (dhs.ri.gov)
• How to apply fast: Apply online, by phone, in person, or by paper; upload documents with the HealthyRhode portal. DHS Call Center 1-855-697-4347. EBT Customer Service 1-888-979-9939 for card issues. (dhs.ri.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Missing the interview call: Answer unknown numbers during the application window. If you miss it, call back immediately using DHS numbers above. (dhs.ri.gov)
• Not asking for “expedited service”: If you have under $100\ast \ast cashandunder\ast \ast$150 income this month, or your housing costs exceed income, say you request expedited service. (dhs.ri.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask a local DV advocate to call DHS with you, or call the Helpline 1-800-494-8100 to find a benefits navigator. (helplineri.com)

WIC (pregnant, postpartum, and children under 5)

• Monthly fruits/vegetables cash‑value benefit Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025: children $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, fully or mostly breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)
• Rhode Island WIC: Free nutrition counseling, eWIC card for specific foods, and farmers’ market checks in season. State WIC contacts and clinic info are at the RI Department of Health WIC page. (health.ri.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the WIC prescreener and call WIC Client Services 401-222-4642 (Spanish 401-222-4623). Ask a DV advocate for help if you need safe contact times. (health.ri.gov)

RI Works cash assistance (TANF)

• Typical monthly cash benefit (non‑subsidized housing): family of 2 $701\ast \ast ;3\ast \ast$865; 4 $990. Benefits post twice per month to your EBT card. Lifetime limit generally 60 months; DV waivers are available. Apply through DHS. (dhs.ri.gov)
• Domestic Violence waivers: The Family Violence Option allows waivers of time limits, work, residency, and child support cooperation when compliance would put you at risk. Ask to speak with the DHS Family Violence Option advocate; RICADV has on‑site FVOAP advocates at several DHS offices. (webserver.rilin.state.ri.us, ricadv.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call a FVOAP advocate (numbers on RICADV site) to request a waiver and to protect your address and schedule. (ricadv.org)

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

• Who qualifies (updated 2025): Working families up to 261% FPL can get a subsidy; co‑pays are capped at 7% of income. For a family of 3, income up to about $69,557 may qualify. (dhs.ri.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask for a “good cause” exception if child support cooperation is unsafe; DV assessment and temporary waivers are available. (law.cornell.edu)

Health coverage

• Medicaid/RIte Care: Parents/caretakers up to ~138% FPL; pregnant women up to 253% FPL; children up to 261% FPL. Apply through HealthSource RI; phone 1-855-840-4774. (eohhs.ri.gov, healthsourceri.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask a HSRI Navigator for a private phone appointment so you can talk safely and quickly. (healthsourceri.com)

---

Income protection at work — time off and paid benefits

• Rhode Island Paid Sick and Safe Leave: Most workers can use up to 40 hours each year to address domestic violence (court, relocation, medical care, safety). Paid if your employer has 18+ employees; otherwise job‑protected unpaid. Documentation rules protect your privacy. (dlt.ri.gov, webserver.rilin.state.ri.us)
• Temporary Caregiver Insurance (TCI): Wage replacement for bonding or caring for a seriously ill family member — up to 7 weeks per benefit year from January 1, 2025; weekly benefit equals 4.62% of your highest quarter wages, min $139\ast \ast /wk,max\ast \ast$1,103/wk (more with dependents). File with RI DLT. (dlt.ri.gov)
• Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI): If injured or ill from abuse, you may qualify for wage replacement (up to 30 weeks; same max $1,103 starting July 1, 2025). (dlt.ri.gov)
• Unemployment if you had to quit to stay safe: RI law allows UI if you left work for reasons directly related to domestic abuse (e.g., you reasonably fear harm at or on the way to work or must relocate). DLT may ask for documentation from law enforcement, a DV agency, clergy, attorney, or medical professional. (webserver.rilin.state.ri.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call DLT at 401-462-8000 (main) and ask for UI or TDI/TCI claims assistance, or ask a DV advocate to call with you to request confidentiality measures. (dlt.ri.gov)

---

Housing and staying housed — VAWA rights and safe transfers

• You cannot be evicted or denied housing just because you experienced domestic or sexual violence. If you have a Section 8 voucher or live in HUD‑assisted housing, you can request an emergency transfer to a safer unit. (hud.gov)
• Local public housing emergency transfers: Providence Housing Authority and other PHAs have VAWA Emergency Transfer Plans; call Providence’s VAWA coordinators if you live in PHA housing or use an HCV voucher. (provhousing.org)
• Shelter and housing help for survivors: Sojourner House operates emergency and longer‑term housing; housing office 401-808-6889; 24/7 hotline 401-765-3232. (resources.riphi.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call the Helpline 1-800-494-8100 or 211 to identify openings statewide and get help asking your landlord for a VAWA transfer. (helplineri.com, unitedwayri.org)

---

Crime Victim Compensation — reimbursements up to real dollar limits

• Rhode Island Crime Victim Compensation Program (CVCP): Reimburses up to $25,000 for expenses such as medical/dental care, counseling, relocation, funeral costs, crime‑scene cleanup, and lost earnings. To be eligible, report to police within 15 days and file a claim within 3 years. Apply online or by mail; phone 401-462-7655. (treasury.ri.gov, cvcapp.treasury.ri.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask a DV advocate to help file the application or request a waiver of deadlines if you couldn’t safely report earlier. Start with your local agency or the Helpline. (helplineri.com)

---

Keep your address private — Rhode Island’s Address Confidentiality Program

• Safe at Home (ACP): A free, 5‑year substitute mailing address from the RI Department of State to shield your home address on state and local records; includes mail forwarding. Eligible if you fear for safety and agree not to share your actual address. Call 401-222-5149 or see the Secretary of State’s ACP page for application forms. (sos.ri.gov, webserver.rilin.state.ri.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask a Helpline advocate to help you apply and to troubleshoot with agencies that won’t accept the substitute address. (sos.ri.gov)

---

Language and disability access at court

• Court interpreters are free in Rhode Island courts. Contact the Office of Court Interpreters 401-222-8710 or tell the clerk when you arrive. ASL and other accommodations are available through the ADA Office 401-615-2469. (courts.ri.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Cite your right to an interpreter under R.I. Gen. Laws § 8‑19‑1 and § 8‑19‑3, or ask a DV court advocate to call the interpreter office. (webserver.rilegislature.gov, webserver.rilin.state.ri.us)

---

Replacing IDs and critical documents

• Vital records: The RI Center for Vital Records (6 Harrington Rd, Cranston) issues certified copies. Typical fees: in person $22\ast \ast firstcopy(\ast \ast$18 each additional), by mail $25\ast \ast firstcopy(\ast \ast$18 each additional). Call 401-222-2812 for appointments. (health.ri.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask a DV advocate for a letter confirming your situation; some offices will expedite when safety is at risk.

---

Table — money and benefits snapshot

---

Protective orders — step‑by‑step

• Pick the court that fits your relationship: Family Court if the person is a family/household member; District Court if dating or non‑family. There is no filing fee in Family or District Court. (ricadv.org, courts.ri.gov)
• File the complaint and affidavit: Describe specific incidents (dates, threats, injuries) and ask for what you need (stay‑away, custody, exclusive home possession, firearms surrender). Tell the clerk if you need a temporary same‑day order. (womenslaw.org)
• Service and second hearing: A temporary order generally lasts up to 21 days to allow service; if the defendant isn’t served, the court will extend and re‑issue. Final orders can be up to 3 years. (ricadv.org)
• Firearms: Orders include firearm surrender within 24 hours and proof to the court within 72 hours. (webserver.rilin.state.ri.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask for a court advocate or call the Helpline 1-800-494-8100 to get help writing your affidavit and finding the right court. (ricadv.org)

---

Diverse communities — tailored notes and resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Sojourner House provides LGBTQ+‑affirming services statewide; Women’s Resource Center has a dedicated LGBTQ+ advocate. Hotlines: Sojourner House 401-765-3232; WRC 401-846-5263. Consider the Address Confidentiality Program if you’re relocating. (ricadv.org, resources.riphi.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask the court for ADA accommodations and interpreters at 401-615-2469; for hearings, you have a right to a qualified interpreter at no cost. (courts.ri.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Call the RI Office of Veterans Services 401-921-2119 for navigation; ask specifically about domestic violence services and coordination with VA care. (dhs.ri.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: The statewide Helpline and Day One use a Language Line for interpretation; you can also request court interpreters for free. If you fear sharing your address with agencies, apply to the ACP. (dayone.gladworks.com, courts.ri.gov, sos.ri.gov)
• Tribal/Native survivors: In addition to RI resources, the StrongHearts Native Helpline is available via the National DV Hotline pages; you can ask to be connected. (thehotline.org)
• Rural single moms: If you are in Washington County or Block Island, call DVRC South County 401-782-3990 during the day or the statewide Helpline 1-800-494-8100 after hours. (dvrcsc.org)
• Single fathers: Rhode Island agencies serve survivors of all genders. If you’re the caregiving parent, ask about children’s counseling and safe visitation planning through your local agency. (ricadv.org)
• Language access: You are entitled to a free court interpreter; contact 401-222-8710 before your court date. (courts.ri.gov)

---

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting to apply for a restraining order: Temporary orders can be issued the same day when there’s danger. Evidence can be collected later at the final hearing. (womenslaw.org)
• Not telling DHS you need “expedited SNAP”: Use the words “expedited SNAP” if you qualify so your case is processed within 7 days. (dhs.ri.gov)
• Skipping “good cause” for child support: If cooperation would put you at risk, request a good cause exemption and ask for a DV advocate. (law.cornell.edu)
• Relying on unsafe devices: Abusers often track phones/computers. Use a safe device and clear history; see NNEDV’s tech safety guides. (nnedv.org)

---

“What to do if this doesn’t work” — quick backup options

• Helpline escalation: If a shelter bed isn’t available, ask the Helpline about alternate shelters, hotel vouchers through partner agencies, or transportation to a safer county. 1-800-494-8100. (helplineri.com)
• Housing transfers: Ask your housing authority for a VAWA emergency transfer and request help from a PHA VAWA coordinator. (provhousing.org)
• Legal backup: If you cannot afford a lawyer, call Rhode Island Legal Services 401-274-2652 or the RI Bar’s Lawyer Referral 401-421-7799 for a low‑cost consult. (bvacri.org, ribar.com)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

---

Application checklist — gather these to save time

• Photo ID: License, state ID, or any government photo document. If lost, ask Vital Records and your local DMV how to replace safely. (health.ri.gov)
• Proof of residence or ACP card: Lease, utility bill, or your ACP substitute address letter. (sos.ri.gov)
• Proof of income and expenses: Pay stubs, benefits letter, child care costs, rent/utility bills (for SNAP deductions). (dhs.ri.gov)
• Police report or medical notes (optional for civil orders): Helpful but not required to get a TRO. (womenslaw.org)

---

Table — realistic timelines (Rhode Island)

---

Rhode Island facts to know

• Prevalence: Recent CDC‑based data show about 46.7% of women and 40.7% of men in Rhode Island have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. (ricadv.org)
• Service requests: RICADV reports that on a recent one‑day count, 63 requests for services could not be met—98% for housing/shelter—showing the need to call early to reserve safe housing. (ricadv.org)

---

10 FAQs — Rhode Island, single‑mom specific

• How fast can I get a restraining order in RI: If you’re in danger, a judge can issue a temporary order the same day; a final hearing is usually within 21 days. There’s no fee in Family or District Court. (womenslaw.org, ricadv.org)
• Will the abuser have to surrender guns: Yes. Orders require surrender within 24 hours and proof within 72 hours. (webserver.rilin.state.ri.us)
• Can I get unemployment if I leave my job to stay safe: Yes, if you left due to circumstances directly resulting from domestic abuse (e.g., threat at the workplace, need to relocate). See R.I. Gen. Laws § 28‑44‑17.1. (webserver.rilin.state.ri.us)
• How much SNAP can a family of 3 get: Up to $768 monthly through September 30, 2025, depending on income and deductions. Expedited SNAP may arrive within 7 days if you qualify. (dhs.ri.gov)
• Is there paid time off for court and safety tasks: Most workers can use up to 40 hours a year of paid or unpaid “sick and safe leave.” (dlt.ri.gov)
• Can I keep my address private on school, DMV, and court records: Yes—apply to the RI Address Confidentiality Program; call 401-222-5149. (sos.ri.gov)
• What if I can’t cooperate with child support because it puts me at risk: Ask DHS for a good cause exemption and a Family Violence Option assessment; you may get waivers. (law.cornell.edu)
• How do I get a court interpreter: Call 401-222-8710 or tell the clerk; it’s free. (courts.ri.gov)
• Who helps with sexual assault in RI: Day One provides 24/7 advocacy via the Helpline 1-800-494-8100 and outpatient counseling at 401-421-4100. (dayone.gladworks.com)
• I lost my child’s birth certificate when I fled: Get certified copies from RI Vital Records; typical in‑person fee $22. Try to book a safe appointment time. (health.ri.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: We use only official state/federal sources and established nonprofits. Our team verifies links, amounts, phone numbers, and policies, and updates promptly when changes occur.

Methodology: We rely on Rhode Island agencies including the Judiciary, Department of Human Services, Department of Labor & Training, Department of Health, the Office of the General Treasurer (CVCP), HUD/PHAs, HealthSource RI, DCYF, and the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence, as well as national authorities like USDA FNS and the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Examples of sources include: RI Courts on Family and District Court procedures; RICADV Helpline and member agencies; USDA FY2025 SNAP and WIC amounts; RI DHS SNAP/CCAP/RI Works; DLT TDI/TCI; CVCP $25,000 cap; Address Confidentiality Program; DCYF Hotline. (courts.ri.gov, helplineri.com, dhs.ri.gov, fns.usda.gov, dlt.ri.gov, treasury.ri.gov, sos.ri.gov, dcyf.ri.gov)

Editorial standards: See our Editorial Policy for research methods, review cycles, accuracy commitments, and limitations. This page follows Google’s E‑E‑A‑T and YMYL best practices and uses primary sources. Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

---

Disclaimer

Information changes: Benefit amounts, eligibility, and procedures may change after publication. Always confirm with the relevant agency before applying or acting.

Not legal advice: This guide is for general information. For legal advice about your situation, contact a licensed attorney or a court advocate.

Safety and security: Use a safe device when seeking help. If you spot outdated info or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we will respond within 48–72 hours per our editorial standards.

🏛️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
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ 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
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery