DHS Recognizes SNAP Outreach Community Partners

Published on Tuesday, July 09, 2024

The Rhode Island Department of Human Services recently recognized a number of community-based organizations for their partnership in helping Rhode Islanders learn about the availability, application process, eligibility requirements, and benefits of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). 

“RI DHS is so grateful for the support, dedication, and outreach these partners provide across the state to better inform and ensure access to healthy and nutritious food through the SNAP Program,” said DHS Director Kimberly Merolla-Brito. “They represent the true spirit of community service and partnership. Thanks to their efforts, access to SNAP continues to grow and help those in need. On behalf of DHS and those we serve, thank you for all that you do. You are the true embodiment of the SNAP Outreach motto, ‘We’re here for you!’”

Agencies recognized included: Center for Southeast Asians, Genesis Center, One Neighborhood Builders, Connect for Health/Lifespan (The Miriam Hospital), United Way/211, United Way Rhode Island, Senior and Disabilities, The Boys & Girls Clubs of Providence, East Providence, Pawtucket, Northern Rhode Island, Newport County, and Warwick.

Pictured in the attached photo, from left to right, are: 

• Lisa DaPonte, Center for Southeast Asians
• Patricia Miller, United Way of Rhode Island
• Shannon Carrol, Genesis Center
• Mariasol Cuesta, United Way of Rhode Island
• Chris Ackley, Genesis Center
• Wendy Heugas, United Way of Rhode Island
• Michael Kenyon, Boys and Girls Club of Northern Rhode Island
• Charlene Traynum, Boys and Girls Club of Newport
• Kimberly Merolla-Brito, Director, RI Department of Human Services
• Matthew She, Boys and Girls Club of East Providence
• Dennis Gonzalez, One Neighborhood Builders
• Cherima Folston, Boys and Girls Club of Pawtucket
• John Garrahan, United Way
• Karen Zuniga, One Neighborhood Builders 
• Karin Kavanagh, Boys and Girls Club of Warwick
• Stephanie Silva, Boys and Girls Club of Providence
• Laurie Cote, DHS Assistant Administrator of Community and Planning Services 
• Channavy Chhay, Center for Southeast Asians

These community SNAP Outreach projects provide application assistance (online or paper), answer questions about SNAP, as well as help with reporting changes, the completion of recertifications, interim reports and other activities related to SNAP.

If you’re an individual needing support or your organization is having an event or your staff would like someone to share information about the availability, application process, eligibility requirements, and benefits of SNAP or you seek people on site to assist with SNAP applications or questions, please look at the list of SNAP Outreach Community partners https://dhs.ri.gov/programs-and-services/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/snap-outreach-toolkit and contact the partner that most closely aligns with your specific needs or activities.