Official State of Rhode Island website

State of Rhode Island Department of Housing

GOVERNOR MCKEE, DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING ANNOUNCE TWO NEW AWARDS TO MUNICIPALITIES FOR EMERGENCY HUBS THROUGH THE MUNICIPAL HOMELESSNESS SUPPORT INITIATIVE

Published on Thursday, February 27, 2025

PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, Governor Dan McKee and Department of Housing Secretary Deborah Goddard announced the latest awards to two municipalities through the Municipal Homelessness Support Initiative.  

This initiative provides grants to municipalities to expand homelessness services or support municipalities with related costs, including the establishment of emergency hubs to offer immediate relief to individuals experiencing homelessness during the harsh weather.  

“Addressing homelessness requires collaboration," said Governor Dan McKee. "Our Municipal Homelessness Support Initiative highlights my administration’s commitment to working in partnership with local communities to provide shelter for Rhode Islanders experiencing homelessness. I am grateful for the cities and towns that are stepping up and doing their part to support those in need."

The Municipal Homelessness Support Initiative, funded through the State Fiscal Recovery Funds, has already provided two rounds of grants, totaling $2.03M to eight municipalities to support efforts to address homelessness, including the establishment of emergency hubs. 

“Ensuring that Rhode Islanders have access to safe, warm spaces during the harsh weather is critical,” said Secretary Deborah Goddard. “These grants reflect our ongoing commitment to collaborating with partners and providing essential resources to municipalities so they can better serve Rhode Islanders experiencing homelessness.” 

The most recent grants will support the following municipalities: 

  • City of East Providence - $30,642.00 for the establishment of an Emergency Hub at the Robert E. Rock Senior Center, in partnership with the East Bay Community Action Program, providing emergency shelter for 15 individuals. 
  • City of Providence - $54,046.00 for the establishment of an Emergency Hub at the Mathewson Street Church, offering emergency shelter for 45 individuals in need. 

Municipalities interested in applying for support can do so until March 7, 2025. The grant application and more information are available on the Department of Housing website: https://housing.ri.gov/homelessness/apply-funds-grants