Assistance programs in Rhode Island
Explore public benefits and assistance resources by the kind of help you need. Agencies decide eligibility and availability.
Find programs for your situationFood assistance
Rhode Island SNAP (Food Assistance)
Rhode Island SNAP helps eligible households buy food. DHS considers the household’s circumstances and conducts an eligibility interview.
Rhode Island WIC
Rhode Island WIC provides selected nutritious foods, nutrition support and breastfeeding services for eligible participants.
Utility assistance
Rhode Island Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
Rhode Island LIHEAP helps eligible households meet heating costs. Local community action agencies guide applicants through intake.
Weatherization Assistance Program (Rhode Island)
Rhode Island weatherization provides energy-efficiency and safety improvements for qualifying homes. Apply through your local community action agency.
Health coverage
Rhode Island Medicaid & RIte Care
Rhode Island Medicaid provides health coverage under several eligibility categories. RIte Care is a managed-care program for qualifying families and children.
Cash and income support
RI Works (Cash Assistance)
RI Works combines temporary financial support with employment and family services for eligible households with children.
Rhode Island Earned Income Credit
Rhode Island’s refundable earned income credit is based on federal EITC and claimed through tax filing.
Unemployment Insurance (Rhode Island)
Rhode Island UI provides temporary income after qualifying job loss. DLT reviews wages, separation and continuing eligibility.
Child care assistance
RI Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
Rhode Island CCAP helps eligible families pay for care through approved child care providers.
Additional support
211 Rhode Island (United Way of Rhode Island)
United Way’s Rhode Island 211 service connects residents with local social services. Start with your location and immediate need.
Rhode Island Legal Services
Rhode Island Legal Services offers civil legal assistance to eligible residents. Intake reviews whether the organization can help with the particular issue.
Program names come from our existing directory. Funding and rules can change; confirm details with the administering agency before applying.