Everyday Equity

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (March 11, 2026) – In response to the sudden, sharp increase in energy costs, the Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF) is temporarily expanding eligibility guidelines to help more local households feeling the financial strain. Through May 9, households may qualify for GNEF assistance with income up to 350% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), an increase over the traditional 300% threshold.
For a household of two, this expansion means they may be eligible with an annual income up to $75,740 (previously $64,920), while a family of four may qualify with income up to $115,500 (previously $99,000). All other GNEF program rules remain the same; only income limits have changed.
The GNEF is a safety net for Rhode Islanders who do not qualify for federal and state assistance programs such as LIHEAP, but who find themselves in a situation where they need help to heat their home. Eligibility is based on household size and total household income.
Assistance to households are determined by fuel type, including electricity, natural gas, oil, propane, wood/wood byproducts, and kerosene, and can provide one-time help of up to $825 per heating season.
“We have seen a dramatic increase in calls to 211 from Rhode Islanders who suddenly find themselves in financial crisis as a result of skyrocketing prices of oil and home energy, this expansion is something we needed to do now,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way of RI’s president and CEO. “Far too many of our neighbors were already living paycheck to paycheck and these higher costs are pushing them to the brink.”
Rhode Island households in need of home heating assistance due to a financial struggle should call United Way’s 211 helpline if they have general questions, want to determine eligibility, or to connect with their local Community Action Program (CAP) agency.

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
 
Providence, R.I. (February 24, 2026) – A new wave of changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are expected to take effect on March 1, 2026, and thousands of Rhode Islanders will feel the impact, particularly residents of the state’s immigrant and refugee communities.
 
Rhode Islanders who experience changes with their SNAP benefits, have questions about the anticipated changes, or who need information or referrals for food assistance, are encouraged to call United Way’s 211. The helpline is free, confidential, available 24/7, 365, and in multiple languages.
 
The revisions to SNAP benefits include reducing eligibility based on immigration status. Under the changes, many non-citizens who were previously eligible, including refugees, asylees, and victims of trafficking, could lose access to SNAP benefits unless they qualify under narrower categories. This shift means that many lawfully present immigrants who rely on SNAP to put food on the table are at risk of losing that support.
 
According to The Economic Progress Institute (EPI), there are approximately 2,300 people in Rhode Island who are projected to lose eligibility entirely. In addition, there are some 11,000 U.S.-citizen children in Rhode Island who are enrolled in SNAP with a non-citizen parent or guardian. If the parent/guardian becomes ineligible with the new changes, the household benefit would drop significantly.
 
“The constant and ongoing attack on SNAP benefits is also an attack on our most vulnerable and underserved neighbors, including thousands who can legally call Rhode Island their home,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO. “These changes, and others, will worsen food insecurity and create hardship for local families at a time too many are already struggling.”

Providence, R.I. (February 9, 2026) – With tax season underway, eligible Rhode Islanders can again have their federal and state income taxes prepared and filed for free through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Led by United Way and its partners, the program is available at more than 20 locations statewide and serves households that earned $69,000 or less last year.
 
VITA provides IRS-certified tax preparation services at no cost, helping working individuals and families avoid the expense of tax prep and filing fees while ensuring their returns are accurate and complete. The program also makes sure taxpayers receive the money they’re due in tax refunds and credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit, which can significantly reduce tax burden and increase refunds.
 
The VITA program is especially important this year as taxpayers prepare for upcoming IRS changes in 2026, including no longer issuing paper check refunds. The change requires taxpayers to have a bank account or another secure electronic option when they file. Many Rhode Island households are unbanked or underbanked, and taxpayers who do not plan ahead could experience delays receiving their refund. VITA sites can help navigate these changes for local taxpayers.
 
“For a lot of working families, every dollar matters, especially right now,” said Cortney Nicolato, president and CEO of United Way. “VITA helps people keep the money they’ve already earned and get their refunds back safely—without having to pay for tax services. At a time when rent, groceries, and utilities costs keep climbing, VITA puts real relief in the hands of Rhode Islanders and helps to stabilize and strengthen families.”
 
Eligibility for VITA is based on income and household size, with households needing to earn $69,000 or less annually to qualify for services. More than half of VITA sites offer assistance in both English and Spanish, and returns are filed electronically. Rhode Islanders with questions about eligibility, locations, or scheduling an appointment for tax preparation should call 211.
 
Last year, more than 22,000 federal and state returns were completed by VITA in Rhode Island, returning $24 million to working households by way of the refunds and tax credits they were due, and in saved tax preparation and filing fees.
 
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United Way of Rhode Island is uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders. As a member of the world’s largest nonprofit network, we bring together individuals, business, nonprofit, community leaders and government to tackle the root causes of inequity and achieve specific, measurable goals. Our programs include 211, the statewide front door connecting Rhode Islanders with social services, resources, and vital programs. Both directly and through grants to nonprofits, we are investing to build economic opportunity, advance childhood learning, expand philanthropy, and to drive policy and participation. To learn more, visit unitedwayri.org, or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram.

Program offered by the Alliance for Nonprofit Impact at United Way of Rhode Island

strengthens organizational capacity and sustainability

Providence, R.I. (January 20, 2026) – As Rhode Island nonprofits continue to navigate growing

community needs and an ever-changing funding landscape, strong, innovative leadership remains

essential to delivering vital programs and creating meaningful impact. To help equip nonprofit

executives with the tools, strategies, and resources they need, the Alliance for Nonprofit Impact at

United Way of RI has selected 12 local leaders for its 2026 Executive Director Learning Circle.

The year-long leadership development program brings together a select group of nonprofit leaders

from across the state whose organizations are advancing critical work in areas such as basic needs,

education, health, and community wellbeing. Through a blend of facilitated learning, peer exchange,

and individualized coaching, participants focus on strengthening organizational strategy and

increasing capacity to drive mission-centered results.

Created to support nonprofits with annual operating budgets of less than $1 million, the Executive

Director Learning Circle is a cornerstone of United Way and the Alliance’s work to build nonprofit

capacity and sustainability. Since 2017, more than 60 local leaders have completed the program.

Laureen Avery is the founder and director of Cumberland-based ExcEL Educators Leadership

Academy, which provides professional learning for teachers to support high-quality, equitable

education for multilingual learners. Laureen recently retired from UCLA Center X, where she led

national efforts to support public school educators serving marginalized and underserved students.

She holds an M.S. degree in Educational Psychology from Rhode Island College and lives in Scituate.

Christina Bevilacqua is the executive director of LitArts RI, a nonprofit that strengthens Rhode

Island’s arts community by supporting creative writers and engaging readers. A longtime cultural

curator, she has led programs at organizations including the Providence Athenaeum, Providence

Public Library, and Trinity Repertory Company, and is a resident of Providence.

Shawndell Burney-Speaks is the interim executive director of the John Hope Settlement House in

Providence, a historic Black-serving organization with a 96-year legacy. Drawing on her lived

experience, she brings a deep understanding of the daily struggles facing her community and is

passionate about coaching as a tool for empowerment; she is a resident of Providence.

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Uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.

50 Valley Street. Providence, Rhode Island 02909 | (401) 444-0600 | unitedwayri.orgLindsay Cutler is the new executive director of Newport Partnership for Families, where she brings a

decade of experience improving access to housing, health, and supportive services for vulnerable

populations. Previously, she managed community programs for the Rhode Island Coalition to End

Homelessness, guiding statewide initiatives to strengthen the homeless response system..

As founder, president, and executive director of Save One Soul Animal Rescue League, Emma Dawley

leads the Wakefield-based dog rescue that has rehomed more than 5,000 dogs and helped countless

others live their best lives. Before founding SOSARL, she worked as an environmental consultant and

planner, supporting sustainable development and environmental initiatives. She lives in Wakefield.

The first executive director of The Village for RI Foster and Adoptive Families, Shannon Dos Santos

brings both professional expertise and lived experience to supporting foster, adoptive, guardianship,

and kinship families across the state. Her work includes partnering with the Rhode Island Department

of Children, Youth and Families to coordinate support services and elevate caregiver voices.

Liz Duggan is the founder of Amenity Aid, one of the nation’s largest hygiene banks, providing

essential hygiene products to nearly 126,000 individuals annually across Rhode Island. Under her

leadership, the organization has grown from a grassroots effort into a statewide operation. Liz holds

an MBA from California State University, is a Leadership Rhode Island graduate, and lives in Warwick.

With more than two decades of experience in nursing and education, Ada Ezeama is the founder and

executive director of RI Allied Health & Safety Institute. The nonprofit postsecondary healthcare

workforce training school focuses on preparing individuals for careers in healthcare., and mentoring

and developing future healthcare professionals. Ada is a resident of Smithfield.

Stephen Fox leads the Contemporary Theater Company in Wakefield. The theater produces a

Mainstage Season, Rhode Island’s only Renaissance Faire, summer camps and other community

events, and Improv Festivals that draw performers and teachers from around the world. The longtime

theater artist earned his Master of Public Affairs degree from the University of Texas Austin before

returning to Wakefield in 2023.

Since joining the International House of Rhode Island in 2024, Heidi LaVine has worked to provide a

“home away from home” for the state’s internationally identifying community. She connects residents

with local resources, facilitates cross-cultural exchange, and supports newcomers as they settle into

life in New England. Heidi is a resident of Providence.

Rush Nicotera is the seventh executive director of Youth Pride Rhode Island and has over 25 years of

experience in grassroots organizing and nonprofit leadership. They have led efforts in comprehensive

sex education, social justice initiatives, and LGBTQ+ advocacy, and have been recognized by Advocate

Magazine and the Human Rights Campaign for their leadership and impact.

Leading DESIGNxRI, Rhode Island’s only nonprofit economic development organization dedicated

exclusively to the design sector, Islay Taylor brings more than 15 years of experience building

inclusive, community-driven creative programs. She previously served as associate director of The

Steel Yard and is a resident of Providence.

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Uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.

Providence, R.I. (October 24, 2025) – In a year marked by division and financial strain across the nonprofit sector, United Way of Rhode Island’s 99th Annual Celebration became a declaration of unity and a call to protect the institutions and individuals who form the backbone of community care.

Held on Thursday, October 23, the event gathered more than 450 Rhode Islanders at the WaterFire Arts Center in Providence to celebrate the tireless work of nonprofits, community partners, donors, and volunteers who continue to deliver essential services and drive systemic change. Throughout the evening, United Way reflected on a year defined by resilience and innovation, with the night culminating in the recognition of organizations and individuals whose contributions uplift local families and strengthen our communities.

“In a time when the need is great and resources are stretched thinner than ever, we are proving that even in difficult circumstances, collective action creates real change,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO. “Each and every day, nonprofits are doing extraordinary work amid extraordinary challenges. These organizations epitomize what it means to be united in action, to meet the moment, and to be steadfast in building a stronger, more equitable Rhode Island for all.”

Among the highlights shared were the launch of the Family Stability Initiative, which focuses on innovative ways to prevent families from falling into crisis and keep children from having to change schools; more than $24 million returned to working Rhode Islanders and the state’s economy thanks to the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program; and successfully advocating for $200 million in state investments in housing to ensure more people have access to safe, affordable homes.

Recognizing that it takes the work of many to influence and create lasting change, United Way presented a number of awards to local champions, recognizing the impact of their philanthropy, volunteerism, partnerships, and leadership.

Receiving the United Way Worldwide Leading Corporate Partner Award was FM. The company is United Way of Rhode Island’s oldest partner and one of its most generous donors, leveraging strategic leadership and deep employee engagement in addition to its philanthropic support.

Honored with a Community Impact Award were Centreville Bank and Rhode Island Energy. Centreville supports the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, 401Gives, United Way’s annual Book Drive, and its volunteer engagement includes eight projects a year. The leading partner in the Good Neighbor Energy Fund, Rhode Island Energy also boasts a robust workplace campaign and match that helps its philanthropy touch lives in every corner of the state.

The Community Champion Award was presented to three deserving partners, celebrating local companies that mobilize their employees to make a meaningful difference by giving of their time, talent, and treasure. The recipients were Dimeo Construction, Gilbane, and Teknor Apex.

Recognizing their leadership in sparking change, Point32Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Health Plan, received the Community Catalyst Award. Committed to leading by example, the foundation has provided crucial funding for The Alliance for Nonprofit Impact and the United We Vote initiative.

Brown University was honored with the Community Leadership Partner Award. The award recognizes the nonprofit educational institution for its partnership in advancing critical issues focused on housing, economic empowerment, and access to supports for Rhode Islanders.

Given to a member of the labor community in recognition of their unwavering service to community, the Dante F. Mollo Labor United Award was presented to Denise Robinson, president of International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers Local 400. As representative for hundreds of members at the RI Dept. of Transportation and RI Dept. of Environmental Management, Denise is a steadfast voice for her labor siblings for workers’ rights and pay equality.

Sandra Mazo, who serves as vice chair of Women United’s Global Leadership Council, was the recipient of the “Leading the Charge, Inspiring the Change” Women United Award. As the Deputy Director of Commerce for the City of Pawtucket, Sandra has been instrumental to strengthening the city’s social infrastructure and economy through her leadership of transformative community initiatives.

Presented for the first time was the Community United Award, honoring the collective impact needed to improve the wellbeing of Rhode Islanders and our local communities. The award was given to the Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner for its focus on equity and underserved populations, and its commitment to innovation through initiatives such as the RI Reconnect program.

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United Way of Rhode Island is uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders. As a member of the world’s largest nonprofit network, we bring together individuals, business, nonprofit, community leaders and government to tackle the root causes of inequity and achieve specific, measurable goals. Our programs include 211, the statewide front door connecting Rhode Islanders with social services, resources, and vital programs. Both directly and through grants to nonprofits, we are investing to build economic opportunity, advance childhood learning, expand philanthropy, and to drive policy and participation. To learn more, visit unitedwayri.org, or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram.