Fatherhood Programs in Rhode Island

6 verified resources.

About Fatherhood Programs for Fathers

Fatherhood programs in the US are funded through the federal Office of Family Assistance (OFA) under the Responsible Fatherhood grant program and through state and local initiatives. Programs typically focus on three areas: healthy marriage and relationship skills, responsible parenting, and economic stability (employment and financial literacy). Services often include peer support groups, one-on-one mentoring, job training, help navigating child support, and reentry support for formerly incarcerated fathers. Organizations like the National Fatherhood Initiative (NFI) and Fathers' Rights Movement operate nationally; most states also have dedicated fatherhood coalitions and faith-based organizations running local programs. This directory includes federally-funded Healthy Marriage and Responsible Fatherhood (HMRF) grantees, state fatherhood coalitions, and community-based mentorship programs — all open to dads regardless of custody status.

Fatherhood Programs in Rhode Island

Rhode Island Family Court is a statewide system handling all divorce, custody, paternity, and child support cases. The Office of Child Support Services operates under DHS. Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket are the largest cities. Rhode Island Legal Services is the statewide LSC-funded civil legal aid program.

6 Resources

1. RI Fatherhood Initiative – DHS — Free

State-run fatherhood programs through the Rhode Island Department of Human Services supporting responsible fatherhood, parenting education, and employment readiness. Fathers can connect to classes and case management through the Cranston office on Howard Avenue. Call or visit the DHS website for eligibility and locations. Bring photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income, and any existing custody or child support orders.

401-462-2121 · 25 Howard Ave, Cranston, RI 02920 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm · Visit Website

2. National Fatherhood Initiative – RI Partners — Free

Evidence-based fatherhood curricula and resources delivered through local Rhode Island partner organizations that run groups, workshops, and one-on-one coaching for dads. Fathers can use the national hotline or website to locate a nearby partner site and self-study materials. Call during business hours for referrals. Bring photo ID and any custody or child support paperwork when joining a local program in Rhode Island.

301-948-0599 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

3. East Bay Community Action – Fatherhood — Free

Father engagement programs for East Providence, Barrington, Bristol, Warren, and surrounding East Bay communities delivered by East Bay Community Action from its Cady Street office. Programs include parenting classes, peer support, and links to employment, housing, and family services. Call to enroll and bring photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income, and any existing custody or child support orders.

401-437-1000 · 1 Cady St, East Providence, RI 02914 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

4. Pawtucket YMCA – Dad Programs — Free

Father-child bonding activities and parenting workshops at the Pawtucket YMCA on Summer Street, serving fathers and kids across northern Rhode Island. Programs may include swim lessons, family gym time, and occasional dad-focused events alongside regular YMCA membership and scholarships. Call or stop in during open hours to learn about current offerings. Financial assistance applications are available at the front desk.

401-727-7900 · 20 Summer St, Pawtucket, RI 02860 · Mon-Fri 5:30am-9pm · Visit Website

5. Providence Head Start – Father Involvement — Free

Fatherhood activities embedded within Providence Head Start's early childhood programs, encouraging dads, stepfathers, and father figures to participate in classroom, home, and volunteer opportunities. Staff help connect fathers to parenting resources, literacy events, and family services. Call to learn which neighborhood centers are enrolling and bring photo ID, your child's birth certificate, and proof of income to apply.

401-351-2750 · Providence, RI 02903 · Mon-Fri varies

6. Boys Town Rhode Island – Dads — Free

Evidence-based parenting skills training for fathers through Boys Town's national 24/7 helpline, which connects Rhode Island dads to counseling, referrals, and crisis support for family and behavioral challenges. Trained counselors help with discipline, communication, and co-parenting. Calls are free and confidential. Have a brief summary of your situation, your child's age, and any relevant court or school information handy.

800-448-3000 · 24/7 helpline · Visit Website

Fatherhood Programs — Common Questions

What do fatherhood programs actually do?
Most combine peer support groups, parenting skill workshops, help navigating child support and custody, job training or placement, and — for fathers involved in the justice system — reentry services. Programs run 6–16 weeks typically, and most are free.
Who can join? Do I need custody?
Most fatherhood programs serve any dad regardless of custody status, marital status, or whether children live with them. Many specifically serve non-custodial fathers and fathers coming out of incarceration. A small number focus on specific populations (teen dads, reentry, veterans).
Are there programs for fathers who lost custody?
Yes. Programs like National Fatherhood Initiative's InsideOut Dad, Father Friendly Check-up-affiliated organizations, and many faith-based programs specifically support dads rebuilding relationships with kids after separation or incarceration.
How do fatherhood programs help with child support?
Many run 'Fatherhood Fridays' or similar collaborations with child support agencies that provide modifications for reduced income, arrears reduction for program completion, or bridge-the-gap job placements to help dads get current on orders.