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Warsaw Poland - July 24, 2023: New Twitter logo X. Elon Musk change Twitter logo. Smartphone with Twitter logo on the screen.

Adios, X/Twitter

Dear United Way of Rhode Island Community, 

We wanted to share an important update about our social media strategy. After careful consideration, United Way of Rhode Island has made the decision to take an indefinite break from Twitter/X. While we recognize the role that digital platforms play in amplifying our work and connecting with our community, this decision aligns with our commitment to building a stronger and more equitable Rhode Island for all.  (more…)

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No matter who wins the presidential election, we must tackle the issues in Rhode Island ourselves

The Boston Globe RI

Addressing housing, education, and workforce problems will require a renewed commitment to collective work, community engagement, and social justice, according to United Way of Rhode Island.

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United Way of Rhode Island impulsa la equidad y el compromiso cívico

WPRI 12 Informa

En una reciente entrevista en 12 Informa, María Elena Wah-Fitta, Manager of Brand Voice en United Way of Rhode Island, destacó los esfuerzos de la organización para promover la equidad racial y apoyar a las comunidades más vulnerables del estado.

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Headshot of Kyle Bennett.

Bennett Named Chief of Staff & Public Affairs Officer

GoLocalProv

Kyle Bennett, who has long been at the forefront of United Way of Rhode Island's legislative and policy work, has been promoted to the organization's Chief of Staff & Public Affairs Officer. Most recently, he served as senior director of public policy and equity, and joined United Way in 2006.

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Grantmakers Council of R.I. names Bourns new executive director

PBN

Courtney Bourns, who has served as a strategy and program consultant for multiple foundations across the country for the last six years, has been named the new executive director for the Grantmakers Council of Rhode Island, the financial support nonprofit announced Tuesday.

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Americans turn to 211 helpline amid mounting economic hardships

CBS News

The Wall Street Journal reports Americans are turning to social services helpline 211 in economic emergencies. Rachel Wolfe, consumer trends reporter for The Wall Street Journal, joins CBS News to discuss.

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Internet After the End of the COVID-era Affordable Connectivity Program

The Public's Radio

Courtney Smith, Director of Innovation and Community Outreach at the United Way of Rhode Island joins The Public's Radio to discuss tips on accessing affordable and reliable internet after the end of the COVID-era Affordable Connectivity program.

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Free meals available for RI kids this summer

WPRI

State officials announced Tuesday that the Summer Food Service Program will resume in early July. Free meals will be served in communities statewide to Rhode Island students 18 and younger, with no registration required.

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Studio10's Ben DeCastro talking with Kevin Matta, senior director of people and culture for United Way of Rhode Island.

United Way’s Equity Challenge to honor Juneteenth

Studio10

Studio10's Ben DeCastro is learning more about... United Way of Rhode Island's Equity Challenge. The event is meant to help people and businesses become more knowledgeable about topics surrounding diversity, equity, inclusion, justice and more.

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Press Releases

Utility Bill Assistance Still Available as RI’s Shutoff Moratorium Ends

Households at risk of losing utilities service amid high energy prices and back bills may be eligible for help through Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund

United Way of RI Hosting 14th Annual Children’s Book Drive

Held throughout April and May, the collection supports the work of Books Are Wings

Eligible Rhode Islanders Still Have Time to Get their Taxes Prepared for Free

The United Way-led Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program is available at 20+ sites statewide

Rhode Islanders Affected by Latest Changes to SNAP Benefits Should Call United Way’s 211

Upwards of 10,000 Rhode Islanders are expected to be impacted by changes set to take effect on March 1, 2026, including thousands projected to lose eligibility entirely

Philanthropists Betsey Purinton and James English Honored by United Way of RI

In recognition of their extraordinary philanthropy and dedication to helping their fellow Rhode Islanders, Betsey Purinton and James English were presented with the Tocqueville United Award by United Way of Rhode Island. The couple was honored during a special donor celebration event on May 9 at the Roger Williams Park Lakeside Pavilion.

Amid Rising Energy Costs, RI Good Neighbor Energy Fund Expands Eligibility to Help More Rhode Islanders

Through May 9, households may qualify for assistance with income up to 350% of the FPL

401Gives Exceeds Goal, Tops $5 Million Raised for Local Nonprofits Thanks to Rhode Islanders’ Incredible Generosity

At a time organizations need it most, 20,000+ donors stepped up to make 32,000+ gifts

United Way Hosts 14th Children’s Book Drive

United Way of Rhode Island’s Children’s Book Drive is back! In April and May, we’re teaming up with Books Are Wings to help Rhode Island children build their own libraries at home. Join us by buying and shipping books, dropping off books at one of our collection sites, or hosting a drive.

Amid Rising Energy Costs, RI Good Neighbor Energy Fund Expands Eligibility to Help More Rhode Islanders

Through May 9, households may qualify for assistance with income up to 350% of the FPL

Just Two Weeks Left for Nonprofits to Sign-up for 401Gives

More than 520 organizations have already registered for this year’s effort, which kicks off

bright and early on March 31 and continues through April 1

Rhode Islanders Affected by Latest Changes to SNAP Benefits Should Call United Way’s 211

Upwards of 10,000 Rhode Islanders are expected to be impacted by changes set to take effect on March 1, 2026, including thousands projected to lose eligibility entirely

Get Ready Rhode Island Nonprofits, 401Gives is Back

Registration is open for the state’s largest philanthropic effort supporting local organizations

Over 12 years, we’ve donated 344,253 books to children statewide.