Community Action Agencies – RI

Housing & Financial · Rhode Island · Free

Statewide network of community action agencies providing emergency financial assistance, utility help, weatherization, and case management for low-income Rhode Island fathers and families. Intake is coordinated through regional offices with the Providence hub at 401-351-2750. Call for the office serving your town. Bring photo ID, Social Security cards, proof of income, lease or mortgage, and any shut-off notices to your appointment.

Contact & Details

Address: Providence, RI 02903

Phone: 401-351-2750

Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

About Housing & Financial for Fathers

Housing and financial assistance for fathers comes through a combination of federal programs (HUD, SNAP, TANF, LIHEAP) and state/local efforts. Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing are administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) with long waitlists in most markets. Emergency shelter and rapid rehousing are funded through the federal Continuum of Care program — every region has a Coordinated Entry system that assesses and places homeless adults and families. Rental assistance, utility assistance (LIHEAP), and one-time emergency funds are available through community action agencies and 211 referral lines. Fathers with children in their custody may qualify for Section 8 family priority and TANF, though state rules vary. This directory covers PHAs, shelter systems, 211 call lines, and community action agencies that serve single dads.

Housing & Financial 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.

More Housing & Financial in Rhode Island

  • RIHousing — State affordable housing agency offering rental assistance, first-time homebuyer programs, foreclosure help, and homeowner counseling to Rho
  • Providence Housing Authority — Public housing developments and Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers for low-income Providence residents, including fathers with custody, joint
  • Salvation Army – Rhode Island — Emergency rent, utility, and shelter assistance for Rhode Island families in crisis, available at Salvation Army locations including the Bro
  • Habitat for Humanity – Providence — Affordable homeownership opportunities for income-eligible Providence-area families through Habitat for Humanity's Manton Avenue office. Sel
  • United Way 211 – RI — Dial 211 for free 24/7 referrals to housing, rental, utility, food, and other emergency assistance programs across Rhode Island. Navigators
  • Warwick Housing Authority — Affordable public housing and Section 8 voucher programs for income-eligible Warwick residents, including fathers, single parents, and famil

Housing & Financial — Common Questions

How long is the waitlist for Section 8?
Varies wildly — from a few months in some markets to 5+ years in hot metros (LA, NYC, DC). Apply to multiple Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) in your area. Some PHAs give preference to families with children, veterans, or homeless applicants.
What does 211 do?
211 is a free nationwide referral service operated by United Way and partners. Call or text 211 to reach a live specialist who connects you to local help with rent, utilities, food, childcare, employment, and more. Available 24/7 in most areas.
Can single dads get TANF?
Yes. TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) is gender-neutral — any qualifying parent or caretaker with a dependent child in the home can apply. Benefit amounts and time limits vary by state. Work requirements apply after a brief grace period.
What's LIHEAP?
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps low-income households pay heating and cooling bills. Apply through your state's LIHEAP office. Both annual assistance and emergency crisis payments are available. Don't wait until disconnection — apply at the start of the heating season.