RIBridges Updates The RIBridges system managed by Deloitte is currently offline, and the State is working closely with Deloitte to address the cybersecurity threat and bring the system back online. The programs managed through the RIBridges system include but are not limited to: Medicaid, HSRI medical coverage, SNAP, RI Works, CCAP, LTSS, GPA, LTSS, and At Home Cost Share. Customers can take steps today to protect themselves, utilizing credit freezes, fraud alerts, and updating passwords. Any customer who sees suspicious activity on their EBT card should change their PIN. Changing your EBT PIN frequently, before or around the time of benefit issuance, is a fraud prevention best practice to protect your benefits. To change your PIN, call ebtEdge at 1-888-979-9939. Additional instructions on how to protect your benefits can be found here. -Please be advised benefits for the month of December for most programs have already been disbursed. -DHS regional offices remain open and are processing paper applications and forms at this time. -The Pawtucket and both Providence Offices, as well as the Call Center, will be offering extended hours from 4-7 p.m. Monday (12/23), Thursday (12/26), and Friday (12/27).
Weatherization Research, Reports and Newsletters Rhode Island Weatherization Field Guide Standard Work Specifications (SWS) Aligned Edition The 2019 Rhode Island Weatherization Field Guide outlines a set of best practices for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). Weatherization experts collaborating with the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) first developed the standard work specifications (SWS) in 2009. This version presents procedures to analyze and retrofit existing buildings for energy efficiency, health, and safety. It gives details and outcomes for weatherization measures that are required when an agency selects a weatherization measure, based on its cost effectiveness. 2019 Rhode Island Weatherization Field Guide 2019 Rhode Island Weatherization Field Guide PDF file, about 31mbmegabytes Energy Assistance Programs Newsletter DHS released an Energy Assistance Programs newsletter in December 2019 for providers and families who use these services. The publication included technology updates for the Weatherization program as well as program improvements for Weatherization and the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). It also debuted flyers for Weatherization and a new program within HEAP called Smart Optimal Solutions. Weatherization Newsletter DHS released its first Weatherization Newsletter in the Spring of 2019 for providers and families who use these services. The publication aimed to inform and help all make the best, informed choices for our customers. This edition included an introduction to our Weatherization team, a coming soon hotline, upcoming trainings and program improvements.