Official State of Rhode Island website

State of Rhode Island Department of Human Services Office of Health and Human Services

RI DHS and Commission on Deaf and Hard of Hearing to Offer Walk-In Appointments with American Sign Language Services

Published on Thursday, July 17, 2025

DHS Pawtucket office to host a series of appointments to support community 

CRANSTON, RI — The Rhode Island Department of Human Services and the Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing are collaborating to offer a series of walk-in appointments at the DHS office located in Pawtucket.

Walk-in American Sign Language services will be available on the following dates at the Pawtucket Office, located at 249 Roosevelt Ave., Pawtucket, RI 02860. Free parking is available.

sign language

“RI DHS is pleased to partner with the RI Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing to improve accessibility and promote equity for Rhode Islanders with hearing loss,” said Kimberly Merolla-Brito, DHS Director. “The benefits process can present complexities and challenges for our beneficiaries. Anytime we can help simplify the process, while providing face-to-face assistance, it is a better way to ensure Rhode Islanders have the opportunity to succeed and feel supported.”

“The Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing has been working with RI DHS to extend access to an array of programs and services,” said Michelle Cline, RICDHH Executive Director. “We continue to explore ways we can better serve our specific clientele, while offering resources that can help simplify applications and other benefits-related activities.”

The Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (RICDHH) advocates for and consults with the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities in Rhode Island, ensuring they have equal opportunities in all aspects of life. The Commission provides information and training specific to this population, its language & culture, and its issues and opportunities. 

If you are a member of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community and need support in a timely manner or other information please contact the Commission by calling phone/vp: (401) 256-5511 or email cdhh.main@cdhh.ri.gov. Visit www.cdhh.ri.gov for more information on programs and services.       

About Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

The Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (RICDHH) advocates and consults for the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities in Rhode Island, ensuring they have equal opportunities in all aspects of life. RICDHH develops communication and accessibility guidelines, promotes favorable legislation, fosters cooperation among state agencies and organizations, and educates consumers, agencies, and employers about equal access as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other laws. RICDHH provides:

  • Sign Language Interpreter and Captioning Referral Services
  • Emergency and Public Communication Access Program
  • Technical Consulting and Needs Assessment on Accessibility and Accommodations
  • Information and Referral on topics related to hearing loss and communication devices
  • Legislation and Public Policy

 

 

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