Community and State Resources available in our communities and throughout Rhode Island

Childcare Assistance Program (CCAP) & Head Start

The Starting Right Childcare Assistance Program (CCAP) program can subsidize the cost of childcare for families that are residents of Rhode Island. CCAP is available for children who are US citizens or legal residents and under age 13. The age can be extended to 18 if the child has special needs.

DHS also oversees the RI Head Start Collaboration Office. Head Start programs promote the school readiness of infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children from low-income families. Services are provided in a variety of settings including centers, family childcare and the own home of children. They also engage parents or other key family members in positive relationships, with a focus on family wellbeing, by participating in leadership roles and having a say in program operations. You do not have to have CCAP to qualify for Head Start.

Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center

Their mission is to provide comprehensive services to victims of domestic and sexual violence and prevention education to the community at large.

24 Hour Helpline: 800-494-8100

Office Number: 401-723-3057

info@bvadvocacycenter.org

Sojourner House

Every day they receive requests for assistance from individuals in abusive relationships. Thanks to supporters, they are able to offer support groups, emergency shelter, transitional and permanent supportive housing, sexual health advocacy, emotional support, professional and community training, and more.

Drop-In Center: 1570 Westminster Street, Providence, RI 02909

Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence

Helpline Available 24/7: The confidential statewide Helpline can be reached by calling 1-800-494-8100 or using the online chat here. The Helpline is for all victims of violent crime, including domestic and dating abuse, and those looking for more information to help a victim of violence. Services & Resources to keep you safe

Central Falls Job training resources

Specialized Work Services SER helps unemployed parents return to work through job search/coaching, transitional job placement, on-the-job training and a variety of other services and supports that help the parents gain new skills and work experience and ultimately, competitive employment. [Funded with a grant from the RI Department of Human Services] Youth Work Experience This summer program exposes youth to the world of work through classroom and hands-on work experience at local businesses. [Funded through the RI Department of Labor and Training, and the RI Department of Human Services] Ex-Offender/Re-Entry Services Working closely with probation and parole, this program assists those recently released from prison in finding and retaining employment. [Funded through SER Jobs for Progress, Inc. Contact: Jim Vandermillen Phone: (401) 616-2425 Email: Jvandermillen@centralfallsri.us

Groundwork Rhode Island
 

Groundwork Rhode Island (GWRI) is a community-based organization helping build healthier, more resilient, and more equitable urban communities in Rhode Island by improving the physical environment and creating economic opportunities for local residents through job training, employment, and social venture programs. GWRI achieves our mission by leading a variety of urban stewardship programs and projects that train and employ lower-income Rhode Islanders, including those with past conviction records and youth. At the same time, GWRI works to physically improve our shared urban environment, especially in predominantly communities of color and lower-income communities in Providence, Pawtucket and Central Falls

Progreso Latino
 

  • Adult Education Program:
    • ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Native Literacy: literacy instruction in the native language of a learner as an initial step to entering our Adult Basic Education programs.
    • Adult Basic Education: prepares adult students below 8th grade to enter the Adult Secondary Education program.
    • Adult Secondary Education: assists students in obtaining their General Education Diploma (GED).
    • Citizenship: prepares students for their citizenship interview including instruction in American History and politics.
    • Job Development: support and training for job seekers.
  • Bridge to Careers: Bridge to Careers began in 2016 with the primary goal of preparing students for employment, job training, and higher education. Currently, the program offers three job training courses with pathways to certification: mental and behavioral health, pre-medical assistant, and digital literacy. Our courses are delivered in a bilingual, IET (Integrated Education and Training) format that provides English language reinforcement concurrently and contextually with workforce training.
  • JOB CLUB: Progreso Latino’s Job Club is a FREE program available to job seekers in the States of Rhode Island and Massachusetts. We work in collaboration with many companies in both states. Please complete the form, so you can participate at our job fairs and connect with prospective employers. We will contact you when we get your information. (401) 728-5920 Ext. 156 or Ext. 158

BVCAP education and Job trainings

BVCAP offers a range of courses focused on academic skills development, educational workshops, and more. BVCAP offers both English as Second Language and Citizenship classes. Academic classes last three sessions and include work readiness, college readiness, financial literacy, basic computer skills and touch typing. Educational workshops include Fast Math and a Writers' Workshop.

BVCAP Community Center 210 West Avenue. Pawtucket, RI 02860 Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30AM – 4PM | Phone: 401-475-5071
 

Skills for Rhode Island’s Future (SkillsRI)

  • Skills for Rhode Island’s Future (SkillsRI) provides tangible jobs to those in need. Businesses are committed to hiring through Skills for Rhode Island’s Future, giving job seekers presented by SkillsRI a competitive advantage. The team at Skills for Rhode Island’s Future will guide and provide you with support throughout the hiring process. Click here for the Skills For RI Job Board
  • SkillsRI partners with government agencies, institutions of higher education and Rhode Island-based community organizations to recruit for a myriad of job training programs that are designed to introduce new skills or build upon existing skill sets in a specific trade or field of study. While the programs vary in length, depth, and scope, all programs commence with job placement support from SkillsRI. Training programs are available at no cost to Rhode Island residents who are unemployed or underemployed. Click here for training programs.
  • Skills for Rhode Island’s Future offers career coaching services to support Rhode Islanders looking to navigate the current job market and get on a path toward meaningful employment and upward economic mobility. All SkillsRI services are free of cost to eligible Rhode Islanders.

RI SNAP Education and Training

RI SNAP E&T is a package of training and services designed to help the unemployed or underemployed gain education and vocational skills to help them find good jobs.

We Make RI

Launch a career in manufacturing by enrolling in their free job training. They have three tracks you can take: General Manufacturing, Materials Handling, and Industrial Sewing!

Rhode Island Works

RI Works is a financial and employment assistance program for parents and families with little to no income who have children high school age or younger. It gives individualized and family supportive services, job readiness, preparation and placement, employment or vocational training and retention services. Recipients can also receive childcare, transportation and educational services towards the goal of improved long-term stabilization. Kinship guardians (i.e. a grandparent raising their grandchildren) can also apply for RI Works to support the children that they are legally responsible for. Eligibility & How to Apply

Become an Apprentice

Apprenticeships are jobs. You must apply directly to the employer or sponsor for acceptance into an apprenticeship. Apprenticeship offers a path into technology, construction, healthcare, manufacturing and other industries for high potential candidates who need specific technical knowledge and experience required to access these careers. In some instances, apprenticeship is the only path to an occupational license.

Back to Work RI

Partner directly with employers to ensure Rhode Islanders get the skills they need to secure well-paying jobs in growing industries. Grow Your Career Through

Genesis Center
 

  • Job Training: Genesis Center offers several Health Care training programs for those interested in a career in the medical field. Learn about potential career paths, including CNA, Medical Assistant, Homemaker, Dental Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, and various other entry-level health care positions.
  • Hospitality Training Program: Specifically designed for adults age 18+ who are working in retail or hospitality, this innovative course offers adult basic education, college credit, and industry certifications so that participants can advance their skills and careers. Students are paid for their time in class to ensure that workers at all income levels can afford to participate.
  • English Classes for Speakers of Other Languages: Genesis Center is a warm and supportive learning environment where you can learn from our facilitators as well as classmates from around the world.
  • Adult Education and High School Equivalency: Genesis Center works with Providence Housing Authority to offer a range of options for adults who want to earn a high school credential and continue on into job training, college, or employment.
  • Citizenship Preparation: Our Citizenship classes prepare adults to pass the US naturalization test.
  • Support Services: Job Placement & Career Improvement, Financial Coaching, Income Supports,
  • Keys To Success: Individuals planning to purchase reliable vehicles can open special savings accounts with Genesis and Pawtucket Credit Union. In as few as 6 months participants can have $2,000 matched dollar-for-dollar toward the purchase of an approved vehicle. Learn more in English or Spanish

Department of Labor and Training Career Centers

Conveniently located throughout the state where jobseekers and employers are matched through quality employment programs and services. Services offered through a one-on-one meeting include, Resume Assistance, Interview Skills and Techniques, Job Search Assistance, and Career Planning Information on training opportunities.
 

Temporary Disability/Caregiver Insurance
 

Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) provides partial wage replacement benefits to eligible Rhode Island workers who are unable to work due to pregnancy or a non-work-related illness, or injury. Employees must fulfill a 7-day waiting period before payments begin.

Unemployment Insurance

Unemployment Insurance (UI) is a federal/state insurance program financed by employers through payroll taxes. UI provides temporary income support to workers who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own and have earned enough wages within a specific base period to qualify.

Home-Delivered Meals (for elders with high need) Meals on Wheels is continuing to serve its current clients across the state and is working with OHA and local communities to increase services during this time. If you are age 65 or older, homebound and need assistance making meals, call Meals on Wheels at (401) 351-6700 or check out their website.

In need of emergency meals and supplies, open to all people in need, please visit the RI Food Bank for a complete list of food pantries across Rhode Island.

St. George Episcopal Church - 12 Clinton Street, Central Falls, Reverend John Lynch (401) 722-9449 (Fridays: 10am-12pm (may visit every week))

Progreso Latino - Point person: 20 Claremont Street, Central Falls, Lisa Murillo 365-4010 (Wednesday: 10am-1pm)

BVCAP - 210 West Avenue, Pawtucket, Jennifer Daugherty or Dave (401) 475-5069 (Monday-Friday 9am-3pm (they prefer appointments be scheduled) handicap accessible, Delivery program available for the elderly and handicap.)

Blackstone Valley Emergency Food Center - 75 Benefit Street, Pawtucket, Dot Lubera (401) 724-7170 (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9am-11:30 am Serving Pawtucket and CF, may go once a month. No appointment needed (need to bring ID for adult and child in household and proof of income)

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

SNAP, formerly called food stamps, is the nation's largest program for fighting domestic hunger. Eligibility and benefit amounts are based on income, expenses, resources and the number of people living in a household. Recipients get an EBT card that can be used at supermarkets, grocery/convenience stores, farmers' markets and participating.

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Services

Rhode Islanders that are pregnant, breastfeeding, or post-partum (up to 6 months, regardless of birth outcome), and/or have a child up to age 5 may participate in the WIC program if they meet our eligibility guidelines. Click here to view RI WIC eligibility guidelines. Any parent or guardian of a child under the age of 5 can apply to the WIC program.The following benefits are provided to WIC participants:

Food on the Move

Food on the Move makes healthy food accessible and affordable. Our mobile produce market brings fresh fruits and vegetables to neighborhoods throughout Rhode Island and lowers the cost of healthy food through a SNAP incentive program. We make healthy food more affordable by offering our customers a 50% discount on produce purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) dollars.

RI Farmers Markets & Farm Stands (WIC, SNAP, Bonus Bucks)

Bonus Bucks — SNAP/EBT users receive 100% bonus every time you shop at the farmer's market! For every dollar you swipe from your EBT card, you’ll get a free dollar to spend on fresh fruit, vegetables, and herbs. Bonus Bucks is an initiative of Farm Fresh RI.

Free or Reduced-Price School Meals Application

All public schools and many private schools in RI offer healthy meals every school day. The cost of breakfast and lunch varies by school, but regardless of the cost, your children may qualify for free meals or for reduced-price meals. This webpage includes everything that you need to know about applying for free or reduced-price meal benefits in Rhode Island.

Summer Food Service Program

The Summer Food Service Program funds primarily lunches and breakfasts and, in some cases, suppers or snacks for children in needy areas when school is not in session during the summer. In Rhode Island, the program provides an average of over 300,000 meals during the summer. These meals are provided to children at no cost.

RI Coordinated Entry System (CES)

Are you currently homeless or facing homelessness in the next 14 days? Your first step should always be to contact the Coordinated Entry System

Coordinated entry is a nationally recognized process developed to ensure that all people experiencing a housing crisis have fair and equal access and are quickly identified, assessed for, referred, and connected to housing and assistance based on their strengths and needs.

Open Doors 24 HR Warming & Cooling Center

Open Doors has been operating a 24 hour Warming & Cooling Station at 1139 Main Street in Pawtucket since February 2023. This is a Low barrier warming station that does not require CES referral for entry and is available for any unhoused men and women. Access to beds is limited to only 31 individuals at this time, though that capacity may increase, the warming station will provide: 3 meals a Day, Bathrooms, No access to showers initially, peer recovery support services and other supportive services.

The Providence Rescue Mission Emergency Shelter

Every night, seven nights a week, 365 nights a year, they provide emergency overnight accommodations for an average of 100 homeless men and 20 homeless women. Each overnight guest has the ability to take a hot shower, access toiletries and hygiene products, sleep in a clean bed, and have breakfast and fresh hot coffee in the morning.

Little Flower Home

The mission of the Little Flower Home is to provide safe and temporary residences for homeless pregnant mothers and their children, and to assist and support them in their efforts to secure a permanent living arrangement. Pregnant and homeless? For help, call or text, 24/7: 401-625-5929

House of Hope Shower to Empower

Shower to empower is a mobile service that provides basic needs, showers and haircuts. Case managers and medical practitioners are on site in the locations below to assist individuals experiencing homelessness. For more information: Director of Outreach, Sara Melucci: sara@thehouseofhopecdc.org/Text or call (401) 287-7808

Crossroads

Leading provider of housing and services to those experiencing homelessness in Rhode Island. Using the best practices Housing First Model, they strive to help homeless or at-risk individuals and families secure stable housing. They provide a range of specialized services: Housing in more than 370 residences statewide, 24-hour/7-day-a-week emergency services, Education and employment services, and Comprehensive case management.

Street Sheets

Street Sheets are one-page, double sided, accordion fold pamphlets with regional information that would be useful to anyone experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity, or hunger. Street Sheets are current as of July 2019. For more up to date information on meal sites visit our COVID-19 resource page atrihomeless.org/community-resources.

RENTAL RESOURCE GUIDE

A guide to affordable rental housing options in Rhode Island provided by https://www.rihousing.com/ The guide contains information on rental assistance programs, affordable housing listings, and tips to save you time.

Housing Choice Voucher Program

Also referred to as Section 8 Rental Assistance, the Housing Choice Voucher Program is the federal government’s major program for helping eligible households rent safe, healthy and affordable homes by paying some or all of a voucher holder’s rental costs. To find out if you qualify, apply now.

Pawtucket Housing Authority

The Mission of the Pawtucket Housing Authority is to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing and to establish programs that will educate, enhance, and empower the lives of all the people in the community we serve.

Find out if you qualify for housing assistance, and how to start an application.

Central Falls Housing Authority

Beginning in 1968, the Central Falls Housing Authority has provided safe, clean, and affordable housing for our residents. They maintain 327 public housing units, serving 500+ residents. In addition, they administer 553 Housing Choice Vouchers housing 1400 residents. Please take the time to visit the pages of our website to learn more about the Central Falls Housing Authority.

Housing Search RI

This online service exists to connect Rhode Islanders seeking safe and affordable housing with local landlords and developers. They provide a host of free resources:

RI Housing Help Center

The Help Center is dedicated to providing support and education to help more Rhode Islanders protect themselves from losing their homes and make safe, informed decisions for their futures.

Central Falls Housing Clinic

Central Falls City Hall, 580 Broad Street, Central Falls, from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM on the third Thursday of each month to meet with representatives from Sojourner House and Rhode Island Legal Services. For more information contact 401-808-6889

West Warwick Housing Clinic

West Warwick Library, 1043 Main Street, West Warwick, from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM on the second Tuesday of each month to meet with representatives from Sojourner House and Rhode Island Legal Services. for more information contact 401-808-6889

RIHousing’s LeadSafe Homes Program

Provides remediation of lead-paint based hazards, such as new windows and doors, Interior and exterior painting, and soil remediation. There are also resources to provide other healthy homes improvements, including, but not limited to, air quality improvements such as dryer vents and bathroom fans, minor electrical upgrades, and installation of carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

BVCAP Housing Services

  • Home Repair Programs: For more information call 401-723-4520
  • Fair Housing Advocacy: BVCAP’s Housing Advocate provides counseling and referrals to clients regarding allegations of housing discrimination and violations of the Rhode Island Landlord – Tenant Act. In addition, the Advocate conducts educational workshops for community groups to inform residents of rights and responsibilities under the law.
  • Contact: Milly Ramos, mramos@bvcap.org, 401-723-4520 ext262

Lead Poisoning Case Management: The BVCAP Lead Center provides non-medical case management to families with lead-poisoned children, assisting the families with tools, resources and education needed to reduce the child’s Blood Lead Level to a medically acceptable level. A case manager is also available to help a homeowner apply for the RI Housing LeadSafe Homes Program.

DORCAS INTERNATIONAL INSTITUE RHODE ISLAND

At Dorcas International, we welcome and strive to empower all. Through innovative and integrated services, we meet our clients where they are by providing wraparound programs and services helping those seeking to overcome educational, cultural, economic, and language barriers.

PROGRESO LATINO

All of Progreso Latino’s immigration services are offered on a nominal fee basis, and consultations are always free. They offer payment options and fee waivers on a case-by-case basis. Progreso Latino is only one of four organizations accredited by the Department of Justice to provide the following legal immigration services.

  • General Family-based immigration
  • Petitions by one family for another
  • Citizenship Petitions
  • Applications for: naturalization, proof of citizenship for U.S. citizens born abroad, citizenship through adoption.
  • Translations
  • Representation at interviews
  • Notary services
  • DACA Renewals
  • Work Authorization
  • TPS Renewals

Help RI Law : Rhode Island Legal Services

Pro Bono Volunteer Law Program

Rhode Island Legal Services encourages and supports the efforts of Rhode Island attorneys to provide pro bono assistance to low income and elderly Rhode Islanders through the Volunteer Lawyer Program, and effort funded by Rhode Island Legal Services, Inc. and the RI Bar Foundation. The Volunteer Lawyer Project staff may be contacted at (401) 421-7758.

RI BAR ASSOCATION: Finding and Choosing a Lawyer

  • Personal Referral: Most people seeking a lawyer begin by asking advice from a personal acquaintance or someone whose opinion they value including family members or friends.
  • Lawyer Referral Service: As noted, the Rhode Island Bar Association has a Lawyer Referral Service (LRS) that will refer you to competent and reliable lawyers. Under the LRS plan, a lawyer will consult with you, up to a half hour, for free. If additional legal work is recommended, it is your decision to continue. At this point, it is appropriate for you to discuss the lawyer’s fees. Reduced fee and legal assistance is available for those who qualify under federally regulated income guidelines. If your initial contact cannot handle your problem, you may request an additional referral. For further information, contact the Lawyer Referral Service by telephone: (401) 421-7799. You may request a referral via e-mail by clicking here.
  • Lawyer Referral Service for the Elderly: Everyone aged 60 or older is eligible for a free, half-hour consultation with an attorney. For those who qualify under federally regulated guidelines, the elderly client may be eligible for pro bono assistance for certain areas of law. For immediate legal information, you may be referred to an attorney through the Lawyer Referral Service for the Elderly, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., by telephone: (401) 521-5040 or by email eking@ribar.com.
  • Pro Bono Program: The Rhode Island Bar Association Volunteer Lawyer Program (VLP), funded through a grant from Rhode Island Legal Services, Inc. and the Rhode Island Bar Foundation, provides pro bono (free) legal services to qualified low-income Rhode Islanders. Participating attorneys provide legal assistance, at no charge. The client’s income must qualify under federally regulated guidelines to receive pro bono assistance, and the case must fall under one of the areas of law handled by the VLP. Clients may be responsible for filing fees, court costs and other out-of-pocket expenses. For information, telephone: (401) 421-7758 or 1-800-339-7758 or by email jellis@ribar.com
  • Foreclosure Prevention Project: The Rhode Island Bar Association’s Foreclosure Prevention Project is specifically designed to help residents at risk of losing their homes. Coordinated with the Bar’s Public Service Programs, volunteer attorneys directly represent clients in many areas of civil law to avoid foreclosure. These areas may include, but are not limited to, family law, benefits, bankruptcy, loan modifications and probate. When you contact the Bar regarding Project-related matter, a Bar staff member will, in strict confidence, discuss your legal issue. If you are eligible, the Bar staff member will contact an appropriate, experienced attorney. If the attorney accepts the case, you will be provided with the attorney’s contact information and instructed to telephone the attorney to arrange an appointment. All attorney services provided to eligible clients are free of charge. However, you may be responsible for some court fees and/or minor litigation costs. For Foreclosure Prevention Project assistance, telephone: (401) 421-7758 or email: jellis@ribar.com

Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence Immigration & Refugee Services

  • Immigration Services: family petitions, religious visa petitions, adjustment of status, green card renewals, naturalization, work permit renewals, TPS, DACA, and consultations.
  • Accredited Representation: staff is accredited to represent individuals and families before the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence Catholic Social Services of RI is a member agency of the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc.
  • Citizenship Classes: held on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or afternoons from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. to prepare legal permanent residents for the citizenship exam. Please call 401.278.2532 for more information.
  • Refugee Resettlement Services: In affiliation with Migration & Refugee Services (MRS) of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), staff provides refugee resettlement services. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence has been collaborating with the USCCB/MRS for nearly 30 years in their humanitarian mission of the resettlement of refugees in the United States. This program is appropriate for anyone in need of immigration services and refugee resettlement casework and is available in multiple languages including: English, Spanish, French, Tigrini and Amharic.


RIPTA

  • RIPTA Fares
  • RIPTA offers a special Reduced Fare Bus Pass Program that allows qualifying low-income seniors (age 65 or over) and low-income persons with disabilities to travel at no cost. For more information on how to apply for this program, please click here.
  • RIPTA also complies with federal transit guidelines and offers half-fare boarding to seniors and persons with disabilities, regardless of income, during OFF PEAK hours. These passengers pay full fare during RIPTA peak service hours (7am-9 am and 3pm-6pm) on weekdays. They can also use a Medicare Card to board.
  • RIde Program/ ADA Service: The RIde Program is for people with disabilities that prevent the use of fixed-route buses, RIPTA offers paratransit service through the RIde Program, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ADA Paratransit provides door to door service and requires advance reservations.

RI Drivers Privledge Cards – Rhode Island Division Motor Vechicles

You may be eligible for a Drivers' Privilege Card if you are unable to establish legal presence in the United States, but you are a Rhode Island resident who has either filed a Rhode Island personal income tax return in the prior tax year or has been claimed as a dependent on one. In order to be eligible for a Drivers’ Privilege Card you must present the required documents listed in the Drivers’ Privilege Card & Drivers’ Privilege Permit Document Checklist:

Utility Shut-off Protections

New Born Eligibility

If you have a child younger than two years old living in your home and you are struggling to pay your energy bills because of financial hardship, your service will NOT be turned off.

To qualify, you must:

  • Fill out a financial hardship form;
  • Provide proof of financial hardship (such as tax returns, three months of pay stubs, or Social Security Disability Insurance/Supplemental Security Income award letter from within the past year); and
  • Verify child/children’s date(s) of birth by providing copy of birth certificate(s).

Protection for Serious Illness/Handicapped

If you are seriously ill and/or handicapped and are having trouble paying your energy bills because of financial hardship, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission and Rhode Island Energy have protections in place to help you.

To qualify, your licensed physician must complete the Serious Illness / Handicapped Form.

Handicapped

To qualify as handicapped, the customer in whose name the service is listed is required to submit:

  • The Serious Illness/Handicapped Form regarding your impairment, and
  • A copy of the Award Letter for proof of receiving Social Security Disability (SSD).

If you qualify, Rhode Island Energy will not terminate service to handicapped customers without written approval by the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers.

RI ENERGY Discount Rates

Qualify for a 25% discount on your monthly gas and electric bill if you meet any of the following:

  • Receive Food Stamps/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Qualify for Heating Assistance/Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
  • Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Qualify for a 30% discount on your monthly gas and electric bill if you receive any of the following:

  • Medicaid
  • Rhode Island Works Program
  • Public Assistance

If you need help accessing these documents, contact the Rhode Island Department of Human Services at 1-855-697-4347.

APPLY ONLINE click here : https://www.rienergy.com/Discount-Rate-Application-RI

LIHEAP

LIHEAP helps keep families warm through the winter by assisting families with energy costs and reducing the severity of energy-related crises. Households must meet 60% of Rhode Island's Median Income Levels that are set each program year. See the current guidelines here.

  • You don't have to be on public assistance
  • You don't need to have an unpaid heating bill
  • You can either rent or own your home

Learn more and how to apply by contacting your local Community Action Program agency.

BVCAP services the following areas for heating assistance: Pawtucket, Central Falls, Cumberland, and Lincoln. Households must document income and family size and fall into the guidelines set by the federal government. Eligibility is based on Federal Income Guidelines

Apply online here.

RI Energy Forgiveness Fund

If you’re participating in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and have a balance of at least $300 that’s more than 60 days past due, you may be eligible for this solution. The Forgiveness Program, also known as the Arrears Management Program or AMP, allows you to get on a payment plan. If you make payments on time, a portion of your past-due amount will be forgiven, up to $1,500 per year. Program guidelines:

Apply Now: Electric Customers, Gas Customers

If you are not participating in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), or you don't meet the Forgiveness Program/Arrears Management Program guidelines, we do offer other payment agreement options at More Time to Pay.

RI Energy Customer Advocate

Energy bill isn’t always easy, especially now. Their Customer Advocates are there to help. Please email to connect with your local Advocate today. He or she will help identify the assistance solutions that are right for you.

The Good Neighbor Energy Fund

The Good Neighbor Energy Fund provides financial assistance to Rhode Island households who are unable to meet a current energy expense due to financial difficulty. To learn more, go to: Good Neighbor Energy Fund - United Way of Rhode Island (unitedwayri.org)

Keep the Heat On

Keep the Heat On provides financial assistance to households that have either exhausted or are ineligible for all other state, federal or private heating assistance. To learn more, go to: Keep the Heat On - Providence, RI (heatri.com)

George Wiley Center

At the George Willey Center, workers are to assist individuals who are experiencing utility shut off by helping them express their right as a customer.

Learn how you can make a difference and make utilities affordable for everyone in RI! Are you facing termination of your gas or electric service? Join us at this informational clinic to learn your rights and ways to stop utility shut offs in Rhode Island.

Meet with a Consumer Advocate from RI Energy at Central Falls City Hall

Designed for families and individuals struggling with utility payments. They will be on site every first Wednesday of the month, 9:00am-1:00pm to discuss:

  • Discount rate (25% or 30%)
  • Payments plans, Budgets, Protections
  • Arrears Management Program / Forgiveness

Location: Constituent Services Office, City Hall, 580 Broad St 1st floor

INTERNET

FCC's Affordable Connectivity Program

With the FCC's Affordable Connectivity Program, you can save on your bill and may be able to get high-speed internet for free.

How can I qualify? Learn more about how you qualify

Central Falls Connect

Central Falls Connect provides eligible households with $30 per month toward high-speed home internet service, making some plans completely FREE for city residents! This program is made possible through the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP benefit can be applied to a new or existing internet plan (for example, WiFi through Cox or Verizon).

Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from eligible providers, if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price.