211, United Way of Rhode Island
Free and confidential help finding housing, food, health care and more. Call, text 898 211, or chat. Open 24 hours, every day.
Official page: unitedwayri.org/get-help
Find Help in Rhode Island: Where to Start with 211, SNAP, Health Coverage and ID
A simple first step guide for Rhode Island: call 211, apply for SNAP through DHS, get health coverage through HealthSource RI, reach 988, find free legal aid and learn how to replace a birth certificate.
Need help tonight?
Start here
Hi friend. If things feel like too much right now, you don't have to figure it all out at once. Start with one call to 211, then take the next small step from this page.
Quick answers
What is 211 in Rhode Island and how do I reach it?
211 is a free and confidential helpline run by United Way of Rhode Island. You can call 211, text 898 211, or chat on the website. It is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also call 401 519 0360. It can connect you with housing, food, health care, legal help and more. For a life threatening emergency, call 911.
Official page: unitedwayri.org/get-help
How do I apply for SNAP food benefits?
You can apply online, on paper, by phone, or in person at the Rhode Island Department of Human Services, also called DHS. The DHS phone number is 855 697 4347. The Food Bank's SNAP Outreach team also helps people fill out the application at food pantries around the state, in English and Spanish.
Official page: rifoodbank.org/snap-outreach
How do I get health insurance?
HealthSource RI is the state's official health insurance marketplace. Call 855 840 4774. Open Enrollment runs November 1 to January 31, and you may be able to sign up at other times after a life change, like losing coverage. Over 100 Navigators across the state can help you apply.
Official page: healthsourceri.com
What if I'm in crisis or thinking about suicide?
Call or text 988, or chat at chat.988lifeline.org. It is free. For a Spanish speaking counselor, call 988 and press 2, or text AYUDA to 988.
Official page: 988lifeline.org/get-help
Where can I get free legal help?
Rhode Island Legal Services helps low income people with civil legal problems like evictions, benefits and family issues. Call 401 274 2652 for the Providence office or 401 846 2264 for the Newport office. You can also apply online at rils.org.
Official page: rils.org
Your next steps
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All done. You are ready, friend.
Bunkly tip: write the 211 number and the DHS number on a card and keep it with your ID. If your phone dies, you can still ask a shelter or library to dial for you.
Who to call in Rhode Island
Here are official places to start. Other places may also help. Each place decides who it can serve, and hours change, so call ahead when you can.
Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS)
Apply for SNAP online, on paper, by phone or in person. The Food Bank's SNAP Outreach team can help you fill out the form.
Official page: rifoodbank.org/snap-outreach
HealthSource RI
The state's health insurance marketplace, with Navigators who help you apply and choose a plan.
Official page: healthsourceri.com
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Free support by call, text or chat. Spanish is available.
Official page: 988lifeline.org/get-help
Rhode Island Legal Services
Free civil legal help for low income Rhode Islanders. Providence office at 56 Pine Street, 4th floor.
Official page: rils.org
City of Providence Vital Records
Order a birth certificate in person or by mail at 25 Dorrance Street, Room 104. Weekdays, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Official page: providenceri.gov/vital-records
More help in Rhode Island
Housing help in Rhode Island (rent, eviction, utilities)Emergency Shelter Tonight in Rhode Island: Providence, Westerly and How to Get HelpNo cost Food Help in Rhode Island: SNAP, WIC and Food BanksNo cost Clothing, Showers and Hygiene Help in Rhode IslandFree Job Help and Job Training in Rhode IslandFree and Low Cost Health and Mental Health Help in Rhode IslandDomestic Violence Help, Safety and Housing in Rhode IslandHelp for Veterans in Rhode Island: Housing, Crisis Support and BenefitsHelp for Youth and Young Adults in Rhode Island: Drop In Centers, Shelter and Crisis LinesGetting ID and Documents Back in Rhode Island: Birth Certificate, State ID and Social Security CardFree and Low Cost Phone and Internet Help in Rhode IslandFree Legal and Tenant Help in Rhode Island: Evictions, Benefits and Fair HousingHow to Make Blessing Bags in Rhode Island: Water, Warmth and a Help Card
Sources last checked Oct 28, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or housing. Each person chooses which options to use.