RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING COMPLETES PURCHASE OF FORMER CHARLESGATE NURSING HOME

Published on Wednesday, October 02, 2024

100 Randall Street, the former Charlesgate Nursing Home, provides over 160 beds for emergency shelter for Rhode Islanders experiencing homelessness.

Providence, RI – The Rhode Island Department of Housing has officially closed on the purchase of the former Charlesgate Nursing Home, located at 100 Randall Street in Providence for $6.85 million. This acquisition allows the state to sustain crucial emergency shelter in a state-owned asset that will help reduce state shelter costs in the long-term.    

 “Our administration is committed to growing housing capacity in Rhode Island—from emergency shelters to affordable and workforce housing,” said Governor Dan McKee. “Our purchase of 100 Randall Street means we will be able to better manage emergency sheltering and reduce costs in the long-term.”   

 The purchase is a strategic move by the McKee Administration to enhance the department's ability to manage key assets effectively. By securing ownership of this property, the state aims to optimize resource management, reduce future expenditures, and adapt the facility to meet evolving housing needs.  

 “Rhode Island is in the midst of a severe housing crisis. In addition to funding for the development of more affordable housing, the General Assembly also allocated significant funding in the state budget to address homelessness,” said House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi and Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio. “We are pleased these resources are being deployed to ensure that some of the most vulnerable Rhode Islanders have the housing stabilization services they need, particularly as the colder winter months are fast approaching.”  

 “We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of 100 Randall Street, which will play a crucial role in expanding our capacity to provide emergency shelter Rhode Islanders in need,” said Interim Secretary of Housing Dan Connors. “This facility represents a significant investment in our commitment to addressing homelessness and enhancing support for our community. By securing this space, we not only meet immediate shelter needs but also strengthen our ability to deliver long-term, effective solutions for Rhode Islanders facing housing challenges. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this facility will have on our efforts to ensure that everyone has a safe and secure place to call home.”  

 The $6.85 million investment is funded through Rhode Island’s FY2024 Homelessness Infrastructure appropriation in the Governor’s budget, which was approved by the General Assembly, designated for, among other things, acquiring or constructing shelter and housing solutions.  

  After the former Charlesgate Nursing Home facility closed in May of 2023, several entities have been leasing the property to provide temporary emergency shelter and services, including Amos House’s family shelter, which the Department funds. 

“Amos House is grateful for the state’s investment in the purchase of 100 Randall St. as it will allow us to continue to provide vital services to unhoused families,” said Amos House CEO, Eileen Hayes. We need short-term emergency shelter as well as long-term permanent housing solutions to address the current housing crisis and this is an important step moving forward. I am sure that the families and children currently residing at the family shelter can rest well tonight knowing that they have a safe place to sleep over the foreseeable future.”