Child/Dependent Care Expense Assistance

BrightStars also helps families in Rhode Island access quality child care, early learning, and school-age programs through our referral program. Families may search for programs online or call our toll-free number, 1-855-398-7605, to speak with a referral specialist who can assist in finding a program that fits their needs.
Information for families [https://exceed.ri.gov/Pages/Families/FamiliesDefault.aspx]
Information for professionals [https://exceed.ri.gov/Pages/Professionals/ProfessionalsDefault.aspx]

Rhode Island is committed to high-quality early learning opportunities for all children. BrightStars was designed and implemented in partnership with the R.I. Department of Human Services, the R.I. Department of Education, the R.I. Department for Children, Youth and Families, Rhode Island KIDS COUNT and the United Way of Rhode Island

RI Department of Human Services oversees a number of programs to help individual and families in Rhode Island. A complete comprehensive list is on their website.

Childcare

Includes Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) and Head Start link

Supplemental Nutrition Program SNAP

Medicaid and Medicare Programs

Includes Katie Beckett Katie Beckett is an eligibility category in Medicaid that allows certain children under age 19 who have long-term disabilities or complex medical needs to become eligible for Medicaid coverage.

The Sherlock Plan

Medicaid for Working People with Disabilities Program is a type of Medicaid eligibility for working adults with disabilities.

Medicare Premium Program

SSI State Supplemental Payment

Long Term Services and Supports

Includes Medicaid Long Term Care Supported Services (LTSS) and Enhanced Assisted Living Program for elderly and adults with disabilities.

RI Works Program

RI Works is a financial and employment assistance program for parents and families with little to no income who have children high school age or younger.

General Public Assistance Programs

Includes Bridge Fund, Hardship Program and Funeral/Burial Assistance 

Refugee Assistance Programs

Energy Assistance Programs

DHS' programs and services, including those offered by our four divisions, collectively serve more than 300,000 families, adults, children, older Rhode Islanders, individuals with disabilities and veterans each year. Each have their own eligibility requirements and our staff are happy to assist those who need us through the application process and any other needs. 

Office locations

DHS' programs and services, including those offered by our four divisions, collectively serve more than 300,000 families, adults, children, older Rhode Islanders, individuals with disabilities and veterans each year. Each have their own eligibility requirements and our staff are happy to assist those who need us through the application process and any other needs. 

• Customer Portal: login to your portal to access your benefits, instructions can be found on the Helpful Technology Resources page

Office locations

DHS Call Center

For general information on SNAP, RI Works, Child Care Assistance, EBT Cards, General Public Assistance, RIte Care, and other agency programs

1-855-MY-RIDHS (1-855-697-4347)