Rhode Island Foundation ARPA Grant
The Rhode Island Foundation, in collaboration with state leaders including Governor Dan McKee, House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, and Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio, has allocated $20 million from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to support nonprofits addressing critical needs exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these nonprofits, more than 90 organizations have received a total of $8.3 million to combat food insecurity, housing instability, homelessness prevention, and behavioral health needs across Rhode Island.
These grants, a part of the Foundation’s ARPA Nonprofit Support Program, prioritize community-based organizations serving areas most affected by the pandemic. Recipients include well-known entities such as the East Bay Community Action Program, House of Hope, Newport Mental Health, Northern RI Food Pantry, Pawtucket Soup Kitchen, Progreso Latino, the WARM Shelter, and Friends of RI CASA, among others.
The funding targets various vital initiatives, from expanding mental health services for children and families to bolstering food distribution efforts and supporting mobile crisis outreach teams. Additionally, the Foundation emphasizes ongoing support, encouraging eligible organizations to apply for the remaining $11.7 million, with grants expected to reach up to $150,000 per recipient.