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Rhode Island

These resources – like the public health crisis itself – are constantly evolving and are only current as to the date of publication. This page was last updated on April 26, 2020.

For more up-to-date information on the relief programs available in Rhode Island, we recommend that you visit the state's COVID-19 Resource Center website or Rhode Island's Department of Health website

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Description of Program and Relief

Free Food and Meals

Due to the closure of schools, free "Grab and Go" meals are available for children throughout Rhode Island. At the vast majority of sites, anyone aged 18 or under who shows up gets a free meal. Sites are listed on the Department of Health’s Food Sites for Children webpage and people are advised to check back regularly as the locations and times for pickup may change.

The Office of Healthy Aging has suspended congregated dining, but is doing either grab-and-go and/or deliveries to their current clients. Click here to find a meal site.

The Community Food Bank has made some adjustments to its operations, but continues to deliver food through Rhode Island’s statewide network of member agencies. To find a food pantry near you, click here for the Rhode Community Food Bank.

Government or Lead Agency

Department of Human Services (“DHS”), Office of Healthy Aging (“OHA”)

Dates Available

Effective immediately

Eligibility Requirements/Restrictions

SCHOOL MEALS: Anyone aged 18 or under who shows up gets a free meal. Some food sites are only providing meals to students who are enrolled in that school/district, see list for details. At all sites, the child must be present; schools cannot give a meal to an adult on behalf of a child.

Application Deadlines (If Applicable)

N/A

Contact for More Information

DHS Call Center: 1 (855) MY-RIDHS

List of Additional Information

Click here to read the DHS press release on all food and meals being provided in light of COVID-19.


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