Rhode Island Foundation: Join us for weR1 Rhode Island

Foundation joins partners to launch weR1 Rhode Island Fund, announces latest grants from COVID-19 Response Fund

Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island and the Rhode Island Foundation recently joined Governor Gina M. Raimondo, area mayors, and other community partners to announce the launch of the weR1 Rhode Island Fund. The fund will provide direct cash assistance to Rhode Islanders who are unable to benefit from most public programs and emergency relief efforts due to their immigration status.

The weR1 Rhode Island Fund is a collaborative effort between government, community, and philanthropic organizations to raise $3 million to provide no-fee debit cards to Rhode Islanders with urgent need due to sickness, job loss, or reduction in work hours and who are excluded from many federal programs.

The Foundation contributed $200,000 to this effort and is assisting in managing major gifts to the fund alongside Dorcas International. Additional early funders include Accelerator for America and United Way of Rhode Island.

Learn more about the weR1 Rhode Island Fund. Contribute to the Fund through the Foundation here.

In the latest round of grants from the COVID-19 Response Fund, 23 organizations across the state were awarded funds to provide help with food, rent, utilities, and other expenses. These grants bring the total awarded to nearly $8 million since the fund was established in March by the Foundation and United Way of Rhode Island.

Donors have already contributed just over $8.5 million since the crisis began. The Fund will continue to accept donations as long as the need exists. To contribute, please click here.