Programs and Services
DHS' programs and services, including those offered by our four divisions, collectively serve more than 300,000 families, adults, children, older Rhode Islanders, individuals with disabilities and veterans each year. Each have their own eligibility requirements and our staff are happy to assist those who need us through the application process and any other needs.
If you have internet access, many services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through the online Customer Portal. You can view notices, report a change, submit a document we requested and apply all online. Click Tech Resources within the Resources tab above for useful how to guides.
Child Care
Subsidies to quality care, Head Start and support and licensing for the State's child care providers
DHS Divisions
Office of Child Support Services (OCSS)
Office of Healthy Aging (OHA)
Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS)
Office of Veterans Services (Vets)
Energy Assistance Programs
Heating and weatherization services for eligible low-income families
General Public Assistance
Small cash assistance for low-income adults 18+ while they await an SSI determination, GPA Hardship payments and Funeral/Burial payment assistance
Long Term Services & Supports
Custom services for older adults, people with disabilities or chronic care needs living in a variety of settings as well as the SSI Enhanced Assisted Living program
Medicaid / Medicare Programs
Multiple healthcare coverage options through the publicly-funded state Medicaid program as well as a Medicare Premium Payment Program for those with federal Medicare
Refugee Assistance Program
Supporting refugees with resettling in Rhode Island
Rhode Island Works
Financial and employment assistance for low-income families with children
SSI State Supplemental Payment Program
Small cash benefit for those aged, blind or disabled who receive federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Fighting domestic hunger with food assistance for those with little to zero income and eligible students not receiving school meals due to COVID-19