Statewide Resources

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. 

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Street Sheets are current as of July 2019. Updated resources are in the works and should be available for access in November.

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English

• Northern RI (Blackstone Valley)

• Providence

• Newport

• Southern RI (Washington & Kent Counties)

 

Spanish

• Northern RI (Blackstone Valley)

• Providence

• Newport

• Southern RI (Washington & Kent Counties)

In 2012, Rhode Island became the first state to formally protect the rights of those experiencing homelessness. RI General Laws § 34-37.1-3. Homeless Bill of Rights states:

"No person's rights, privileges, or access to public services may be denied or abridged solely because he or she is homeless. Such a person shall be granted the same rights and privileges as any other resident of this state."

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Print out your rights and keep them on you at all times:

• Know Your Rights (card, English)

 

If your rights as someone experiencing homelessness have been violated, follow these steps:

1. Take photos, video or audio of the incident.

2. Write down what you remember, or record as much of the incident as you can. Specifically what happened, where it happened, when, and who was involved. 

3. Write down or record the name, badge number, license plate, or any other identifying information about the discriminating person.

4. Call or text: (401) 992-4185

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The data collected on our Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) is private and remains confidential with required client consent to collect information. Learn more information and read our privacy policy here.

There are several resources that can help you understand and advocate for your rights as a tenant:

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• Rhode Island Landlord Tenant Handbook

• Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights

• Rhode Island Landlord Tenant Law

• Rhode Island Attorney General's Office

• Rhode Island Legal Services

• Rhode Island Center for Justice

• DARE Tenant and Homeowner Association

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The Coalition hosts a Legal Clinic to provide legal advice to those experiencing homelessness. To learn more, visit rihomeless.org/legal-clinic

Please visit the Rhode Island Community Food Bank to find a food pantry near you. 

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You can also apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps) by visiting a Department of Human Services office or online here. 

Rhode Island Housing Guide

Rhode Island compiles a list of of affordable housing on their website rihousing.com.

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Housing Search RI

HousingSearchRI.org is a free online service that provides easy access to information about available homes in Rhode Island. Whether you are looking to rent an apartment, buy your first home, or relocate to a new home that better fits your needs and budget, this site provides you with the listings and resources you need to find a home that's right for you.

Funding and assistance may be available.

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Contact your local CAP Agency to speak with an advisor about which programs are best for you. For an online overview of housing and utility assistance programs view the Economic Progress Institute's Guide to Government Assistance Programs.

Help is available. The sooner you call, the more options you will have.

Call the Rhode Island Housing Help Center at 401-457-1130, and they can provide education and advice on your options.

See a list of of HUD-approved foreclosure avoidance counselors here. 

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*HUD is the federal Housing and Urban Development department. 

The Rhode Island Coalition for the Homeless runs a Legal Clinic for those who are experiencing homelessness and are facing legal issues. Learn more about our legal clinic at rihomeless.org/legal-clinic
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Our clinics can help with the following issues:

• Housing

• Social Security

• Medical Assistance

• Veterans' issues

• Family Independence Program

• Court procedures

• Bankruptcy and identification issues

• Food stamp benefits

• Unemployment appeals,

• General public assistance

• Expungement (specially marked clinics only)

Call 2-1-1 twenty-four hours a day from any Rhode Island phone to be connected with an operator who can provide you with information on resources based on your unique needs.

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You can also visit 2-1-1 online to search for resources.