The mission of United Way is to improve people's lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities.

United Ways across the country activate community resources to make the greatest possible human impact. The United Way system includes approximately 1,400 community-based United Way organizations. Each is independent, separately incorporated and governed by local volunteers.

As community leaders, United Ways address the most critical local issues and mobilize resources beyond the dollars that are pledged through their fund-raising efforts. Community partners often include schools, government policy makers, businesses, organized labor, financial institutions, voluntary and neighborhood associations, community development corporations and the faith community.

Provides transportation for individuals and families in need. Free transportation may not be available in every community, but 211 specialists can provides other resources. 

Income guidelines and eligibility criteria available on website

Rhode Islanders who need assistance from the Fund should visit their local Community Action Program (CAP) agency. CAP agencies use the guidelines found below to determine qualification. If you are unsure of the CAP agency nearest you, please contact United Way 2-1-1 in Rhode Island. Simply dial 2-1-1 or visit us online.

For more than 35 years, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund has provided assistance to Rhode Island households who are unable to meet a current energy expense due to a temporary crisis.

The Fund was founded by local energy companies that recognized their customer's generosity with various giving programs. The Good Neighbor Energy Fund's 2022-23 sponsors include:

• Block Island Utility District
• Rhode Island Energy
• Pascoag Utility District
• Petro Home Services
• RISEC, LP
• Ocean State Power

Call 2-1-1
2-1-1 Rhode Island is a repository of information about services available in Rhode Island including child care, basic needs, care for elderly and help for a gambling addiction.

Outreach van 2-1-1 will connect you and your community with the help and human services you need.

Individuals can ask for help by phone, searching the website or chatting.

Get help with 2-1-1, your free and confidential resource for assistance with housing, food, childcare—and needs well beyond. Call or chat now to get connected right away. Our specialists are available for you 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.

Because 90,000 households in Rhode Island are struggling to meet basic needs, we help families with the essentials.

We believe not only in helping people through an immediate crisis, but also in funding programs that help people develop the tools they need to provide for themselves and their families. And we provide one place for everyone to call when they need help.

Men and women who have lost a child due to miscarriage, stillbirth or early infant loss.

• Bereavement and Grief Support Groups

Children entering Kindergarten - 11th grade, adults

Colleges, Universities, and nonprofits contract with them to teach their reading program to school age children and adults.

• Youth Literacy Programs

Sells adaptive tricycles to meet almost every need. Each model can be customized with special seating, footplates or headrests that make riding safe, comfortable and accessible. 

Produces social skills training dvds, teaching manuals, and software for children and young adults with autism.

• Instructional Materials Vendors
• Social Skills Training