Rhode Island Assistance Programs

If you live in Providence or Warwick and need cash assistance as a single mom, don’t give up. Perhaps you would like to get some college training and need free grant money, food or utility bill help. There are still federal and state programs, as well as other ideas listed here that may help you.
CASH- If this is the first time you have had to consider getting additional help, don’t feel bad. All of us at one time or another needed help. The economy is difficult. The Rhode Island Works Program can give cash help and other assistance if you qualify. 401-462-5300. The Rhode Island Medical Assistance program may be a good place to start and see what you qualify for. Otherwise, you may need to consider asking a close family member or friend for a loan to help you. You may also be able to get a pay day type loan with a car title if you are in an emergency and have tried these other things.
FOOD – Have you tried to apply for the Rhode Island Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)? This can be applied for through your local Dept. of
Human Services. Northern RI residents can call 401-235-6300. Providence and East Bay area residents can call 401-222-7276. Warwick and South County residents can call 800-282-7021 for more info. Bristol, Charlestown, Coventry, East Greenwich, Foster, Greenville, Harrisville, Newport, North Kingstown, North Scituate, Pantucket, Providence, Cranston, Centerdale, Rumford, Smithfield, Johnston and Cranston all have free food at the food pantries. http://www.rifoodbank.org
GRANTS – Going back to college can seem overwhelming when you think about how you are going to pay for it. The federal government still has the Free Application for Student Aid that could qualify you for free grant money. You may also want to make an appointment with the financial aid administrator in a college near you to see what other assistance might be available to you. http://www.fafsa.ed.gov
UTILITY BILLS – The winter time can be a difficult time to keep up with the utility bills. For assistance try applying for the Rhode Island Low Income Home Assistance Program (LIHEAP). http://www.energy.ri.gov/lowincome/cap.php