REMINDER: REGIONAL ACCESS POINTS NOW OPEN TO HELP IMPROVE ACCESS TO THE HOMELESS RESPONSE SYSTEM

Published on Wednesday, October 01, 2025

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing (EOH) reminds residents that as of today, October 1, Regional Access Points (RAPs) are fully operational across the state to prevent homelessness and help individuals' transition from homelessness to stable housing and improved well-being. 

The purpose of the RAPs is to provide individuals and families at risk of homelessness, or experiencing homelessness, with centralized, easy-to-access entry points to housing-related services, including case management, housing navigation, emergency shelter, mental health and substance use services, and other critical resources. RAPs will provide a comprehensive range of services and opportunities for “warm handoffs” to other service providers for persons experiencing homelessness. 

Alongside the launch of RAPs, EOH has also introduced a new webpage to assist individuals experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. The webpage provides up-to-date information on RAP and shelter locations, hours, services offered, and access instructions, serving as a centralized resource for individuals, families, providers, and municipalities. 

As outlined in EOH’s announcement, instead of calling a single statewide hotline, individuals in need can now visit or connect with one of seven Regional Access Points — including a mobile unit — which act as local hubs for emergency shelter referrals, housing problem-solving, and crisis response services. 

“By making these changes, we’re building a more responsive and compassionate response system,” said Secretary of Housing Deborah Goddard. “Regional Access Points and the new resource webpage will help people connect in a more streamlined way with emergency shelter and housing supports, especially during the winter months when the need is greatest.” 

In addition to online materials, to ensure information reaches Rhode Islanders without internet access, printed materials are being distributed statewide through Street Outreach Teams and local partners, and warming centers identified by the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA). 

A full list of RAP locations, hours, and emergency shelter information is available at: housing.ri.gov/resources/individuals-experiencing-homelessness  

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