ABOUT THE FAMILY CAREGIVER ALLIANCE OF RHODE ISLAND
The Family Caregiver Alliance of RI actively supports those caring for a diverse range of people across the lifespan. From working caregivers, caregivers of veterans, spousal caregivers, pediatric caregivers, older adult and youth caregivers, and all others in need.
Family caregivers include people of all ages, from youth to grandparents; people with and without disabilities; people providing care from a distance; and people meeting a wide variety of needs, such as supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD) across the lifespan, caring for people with serious and/or progressive illnesses like dementia and cancer, and assisting with daily tasks that can be challenging for older people and people with disabilities.
We provide advocacy, education, peer support and resources to the growing population of family caregivers in Rhode Island.
OUR MISSION
The Family Caregiver Alliance of RI advocates alongside family caregivers to expand access to services and supports. We provide resources, information, and connections to programs that meet the needs of those who provide care for others.
OUR VISION
We envision a Rhode Island that recognizes the value of caregivers, their labor and dedication to caring for their loved ones and can offer families access to the right supports at the right time.
OUR VALUES
We believe in caregivers and their dedication.
We believe in amplifying the voice and experiences of caregivers.
We believe in intentional partnerships and coalitions.
We believe in increasing the range of services and options for families.
Our Members
The Family Caregiver Alliance of Rhode Island (FCARI) deeply values partnerships and recognizes the contributions of the many organizations, coalitions, policymakers, and federal and state partners who make this work possible.
Advisory Board Organizations
American Association of Caregiver Youth
Alzheimer’s Association – RI Chapter
City of East Providence Senior Services
Johnson & Wales University School of Nursing
New England Technology School of Nursing
RI Village for Kinship and Foster Families
Rhode Island College School of Nursing
RI Department of Education Youth Caregiver Supports
University of RI School of Nursing
Past and Current Members
Laura Jones | Amy Parks | Cristina Amedeo | Maureen Maigret | Annie Murphy | Dana McCants-Derisier | Aleatha Dickerson | Heidi Ross | Victoria O’Connor | Divya Nair | Dannerys Taveras | Hector Munoz | Janeirys Vargas | Connie Siskowski | Robert Mecunas | Jacky Haskell | Lyn Blanchette | MaryElizabeth Viera | Kara Theriault | Olivia Smith | Erin Healy | Michelle Machado | Isabel Escobar | Marlene Guay | Christine McGrade | Darlene Reza Rossi | Katherine J. Tsamourtzis | Kimberly Cross | Laurie Tapozado | Virakone Phiuphonphan | Mary Benn | Kerri Cassino | Denise Meza-Mathews
Thank you to our sponsors
Are you a caregiver?
- Do you help someone with meals, errands, or bills?
- Do you give someone their medicine?
- Do you help someone bathe or dress?
- Do you take care of a child with special needs?
- Do you take care of an older adult with dementia?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are a caregiver. Caregivers are everywhere and help all kinds of people. You may help a child, grandchild, spouse, parent, grandparent, relative, friend, neighbor, or someone else. You may help them with a few things or most things, every now and then or every day or you may just visit them regularly to see how they are doing.
What do caregivers need?
Currently, the reported 121,000 caregivers in RI are often underrepresented, unappreciated and under-supported. And, The Family Caregiver Alliance of RI is committed to changing that.
We are embarking on statewide efforts to collect information on the needs, challenges and priorities of those who provide care to loved ones in our communities to inform the updates to the RI State Plan for Family Caregivers and guide the focus of the Family Caregiver Alliance.
CAREGIVER RESOURCES
Respite Services
Respite care provides short-term relief for primary caregivers, giving them time to rest, travel, or spend time with other family and friends
If you are a family caregiver, you may benefit from looking into respite care. Respite care exists to offer home care or at a respite location. You do a great job taking care of your loved one, but it’s a lot of hard work. If you’re feeling like you could benefit from a break, contact the Aging and Disability Resource Center and or the Family Caregiver Alliance of RI at 401-462-4444 for a community referral or more information.
Lifespan Respite Nursing Group Respite Program
Location: University of Rhode Island Kingston Campus
This is a drop off service on Saturday afternoons from 12-4pm, which is part of the statewide Lifespan Respite Grant initiative. Multiple nursing and other
Health professional programs are participating in this program. Under the supervision of faculty, students provide care and therapeutic play
activities for children with special needs to give family caregivers a deserving break.
Also accepting adults and older adults, who are being cared for at home. Locations and dates may vary.
Call Gisele Martinez at Catholic Social Services: 401-421-7833 or
Email Chris McGrane: cmcgrane@uri.edu
Location: Community of Rhode Island Newport Campus
This respite drop-off program is designed for adults and older adults who are able to participate in group activities, allowing caregivers time to rest and recharge. Events are hosted by the CCRI Nursing Program and supported by a nursing faculty member along with nursing and physical therapy assistant students.
Registration Required (space is limited, you may register for 1 or multiple sessions):
Email: abparks1@ccri.edu (Amy Parks) or gmartinez@dpvd.org (Giselle Martinez)
Or apply through the CareBreaks Program at: https://dioceseofprovidence.org/elder-services
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Carebreaks at Catholic Social Services Program
The Lifespan Respite Care Program, funded by the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging, provides financial assistance to family caregivers of older adults, as well as adults or children with disabilities, based on the caregiver's income. This program is available to all eligible caregivers, regardless of the care recipient’s Medicaid or Medicare status. Once approved, caregivers are connected with respite care providers across the state, with matches tailored to meet the specific needs of the care recipient, helping to ease caregiver stress.
Call Catholic Social Services: 401- 421-7833 or the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 401-462-4444
Email Denise Meza-Mathews: denise.meza@unitedwayri.org
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GUIDE Program - Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience
This free Medicare-covered service provides comprehensive dementia care navigation to eligible individuals and their caregivers. Designed to support both patients and caregivers, the program helps with managing dementia-related needs, including caregiver education, training, and stress reduction. An interdisciplinary team—comprised of geriatricians, psychiatrists, social workers, and nurse care managers—works collaboratively to deliver personalized support. Additionally, for caregivers who meet CMS guidelines, the program can provide up to $2,500 per year in respite care to help relieve caregiving burdens and promote well-being.
Families can self-refer
Call Brown Health: 401-572-3072 or
Embrace Prevention Care: 978-775-2001
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Respite for Children with a disability or complex medical needs
The Respite Program for Children is managed by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS). It provides parents or guardians of children with disabilities the opportunity to take time off while ensuring their child is safely and professionally cared for. Families may choose their own respite workers through certified provider agencies or the Rewarding Work website. To be eligible, the child must be under 21, Medicaid-eligible, live at home, meet income and resource limits (based on the child’s assets), and require an institutional level of care typically provided in a hospital, nursing facility, or Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF-IID). To apply, families can visit the EOHHS website or contact a respite provider agency to request an application packet, which may require a parent questionnaire and supporting documentation from physicians, therapists, or educational providers.
Families enrolled in Medicaid, RIteCare, or RIteShare can also contact their health plan or a certified provider directly for more information. Learn more at: EOHHS Respite Services.
Call EOHHS Parent Consultant: 401-574-8474 Email: DHS.PedClinicals@dhs.ri.gov
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Seven Hills and AccessPoint RI Respite
Respite care through Seven Hills and AccessPoint RI offers short-term, individualized support for children with disabilities. Services can be provided hourly or overnight, either in the individual’s home or at designated "Respite Inns" or residences, where guests can build self-determination skills and form new community connections. Respite services are available as outlined in a person’s Individual Service Plan (ISP) or through private pay arrangements.
Seven Hills Call: Kerri Nascenzi, Clinical Director: 401-601-0500 Email: knascenzi@sevenhills.org
AccessPoint RI Call Crystal Ducharme, Program Director: 401-228-3940
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The Autism Project Respite Program
This program is designed to support families raising children with special healthcare needs by offering caregiving assistance while providing enriching experiences for the child. Eligible families can receive up to 200 hours per year of respite care for their child or young adult with disabilities. This family-directed program requires parents to select their own respite workers, with support available from certified agencies. Families enrolled in Medicaid, RIteCare, or RIteShare can apply directly through The Autism Project, while those on Katie Beckett should contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS).
Call Debra Langevin: 401-785-2666 Ext 5
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Caregiver Support Programs
Family Caregiver Alliance of RI (401-462-4444)
Provides advocacy, education, peer support and resources to Rhode Island’s growing population of family caregivers including working caregivers, caregivers of veterans, spousal caregivers, pediatric caregivers, and older adult and youth caregivers.
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Aging and Disability Resource Center – 401-462-4444
211 AARP Caregiver Outreach Program (211) Find AARP caregiving resources and local services by calling the 211 helpline.
https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/prepare-to-care-planning-guide/
VA Caregiver Program ( 401.273.7100 x13283)
If you care for a Veteran, the VA Providence Caregiver Support Program can help you access VA services, connect to benefits, and find local resources and programs.
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Long Term Services and Supports (LTSS) RIte @ Home Program
The RIte @ Home—Rhode Island’s LTSS Shared Living program—is a Medicaid benefit that allows seniors and adults with disabilities who can’t live alone to receive care in a home setting instead of a nursing facility. Participants choose an eligible live-in caregiver (not including spouses or legal guardians) who provides daily support and receives payment for their care. Approved agencies, including Careforth and Seven Hills Rhode Island, help with training, caregiver payments, and nursing support.
Careforth (833-217-8123)
Seven Hills RI (508 –755-2340)
Other Resources
Financial
Home Energy Assistance Programs (855-697-4347)
Helps low-income individuals and families manage and pay utility bills, apply for weatherization assistance.
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Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Elderly (401-462-0560 | )
Helps low-income residents access affordable prescription drugs.
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State Health Insurance Assistance Program (888-884-8721)
Provides one-on-one counseling and assistance to people eligible for Medicare, including help with obtaining benefits, filing claims and understanding health care options.
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Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (855-697-4347)
Eligible households receive food assistance through an Electronic Benefits Transfer card to cover a portion of their food budget, as well as nutritional education.
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Temporary Caregiver Insurance (401-462-8420)
Offers up to seven weeks of caregiver benefits for residents caring for a seriously ill parent, in-law, grandparent, spouse, domestic partner or child.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program (call 211 for closest location)
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Legal
Adult Protective Services (401-462-0555; 401-462-0740; 401-462-3000)
Investigates and fields reports of elder abuse and exploitation.
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Rhode Island Legal Services (401-274-265; 800-662-5034)
Offers free or low-cost legal help, information and resources to low- income residents and older adults.
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Health
RI Aging & Disability Resource Center (401-462-4444) Trained specialists at the ADRC can answer your questions and help connect you to services and resources. Contact the ADRC 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. adult day health centers, housekeeping, meal preparation and personal care, among other services.
HealthSource RI (855-840-4774; 888-657-3137)
Allows residents to shop and compare available health and dental plans.
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Medicare Premium Payment Program (855-697-4347)
Helps low-income adults 65-plus cover certain Medicare costs.
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Rhode Island Medical Assistance Program (855-697-4347; 844-872-4681)
Program manages state’s Medicaid distribution for low-income residents; covers medical and health-related care and services.
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State Health Insurance Assistance Program (888-884-8721)
Provides one-on-one counseling and assistance to people eligible for Medicare and their families. Helps residents obtain benefits, file claims and understand health care options.
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Veterans Affairs Providence Healthcare System (401-273-7100; 866-363-4486)
Helps veterans and their families access federal, state and local resources and benefits.
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Housing and Care Facilities
Nursing Home Transition Program and Money Follows the Person Program (401-462-6393)
Supports Medicaid-eligible adults as they return to the community from a nursing home or long-term care facility.
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Rite at Home (401-462-6393)
Supports residents who are unable to live alone and need help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing and eating.
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Rhode Island Livable Home Modification Grant (401-462-0103)
Helps homeowners and renters pay for assistive home modifications, such as widening doorways or installing accessible light fixtures.
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Information and Services
Alliance for Better Long-Term Care (401-785-3340; 888-351-0808)
Advocates for residents of nursing homes, board and care homes and assisted living facilities.
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Office of Veterans Services (401-921-2119)
Provides information and services to help veterans access available social, health care, employment and volunteer opportunities.
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Rhode Island Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (855-330-9131)
Provides eligible Medicaid recipients with transportation to and from Medicaid-covered services. Also provides transportation to qualified residents 60-plus for nonemergency medical appointments and certain other services.
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Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging (401-462-3000, 401-462-0740)
Manages resources related to aging and caregiving for older adults and people living with disabilities as well as their loved ones.
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Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (401-784-9500; 800-745-5555)
Offers discounted fares to seniors and individuals with disabilities during certain hours of the day and additional assistance to low-income individuals 65 and older.
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Veterans Affairs Providence Healthcare System (401-273-7100, ext. 13283)
Network of outpatient clinics provides health information and services to veterans.
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End of Life
Department of Health Hospice Care (401-222-5960)
Provides information for terminally ill patients, their families and caregivers. Includes a Find a Hospice Provider tool.
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Department of Health Palliative Care (401-222-5960)
Offers information about palliative care to patients with serious illnesses and chronic diseases, as well as their families and caregivers.
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Children and Family Services
RIPIN (401-270-0101)
Assist individuals, parents, families, and children to achieve their goals for health, education, and socio-economic well-being by providing information, training, education, support, and advocacy for person/family-centered care and system change.
RI Department of Children, Youth and Families (401-528-3500)
Family Care Community Partnerships (FCCP)
FCCP agencies are part of DCYF's network of prevention-focused providers; they bring community-based services to children and families.
FCCP Provider Name (Region) Municipalities:
Family Service of RI - West Urban Core (401-519-2280 and 401-639-3187 for after-hours crisis)
Communities for People - East Urban Core (833) 322-7123*Also 24/7 Emergency Services phone number)
Child & Family - East Bay (401) 849-2300* Also 24/7 Emergency Services phone number)
Tri County Community Action Agency - Washington Kent (401- 789-3016, 401- 258-8678 for Emergency Services)
Community Care Alliance - Northern Rhode Island (401- 235-7252 24/7 Emergency Services: (401) 235-7120)
Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Hotline - 800.272.3900
Grandparents as Caregivers Program at the YMCA
Through our partnership with the YMCA, we offer free educational and wellness programming year-round for children whose primary caregivers are 55 or older. After-school care, summer camp scholarships, and free Y-based programs are available. This service is available to families in the greater Providence, Pawtucket, Lincoln, and Woonsocket areas; there are no income restrictions
20 Summer St, Pawtucket
RI 02860
The Village for RI Foster & Adoptive Families
The Village was incorporated in March of 2016 as RI’s only foster and adoptive family founded and governed support organization. Today, The Village offers Peer Support for Kinship, Foster and Adoptive Families through monthly support groups, a community closet and family events.
For more information visit RIVillage.org, email admin@rivillage.org or call (401) 481-5483.
Caregiver Action Network – CAN
National Organization that works to improve the quality of life for the more than 90 million Americans who care for a loved one with chronic conditions.
Call the Caregiver Help Desk 855-227-3640
Caregiveraction.org
Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Evidence-based self-care education program for family caregivers that provides tools and strategies to better handle unique caregiver challenges. Free of charge.
Call Catholic Social Services at 401-278-25-02
Dioceseofprovidence.org/elderservices
National Alliance for Caregiving 202-918-1013. www.caregiving.org
Archangels - https://www.archangels.me/
RESOURCE LOCATOR - https://tari.myresourcedirectory.com/
Need other resource information, referral or application assistance?
The Family Caregiver Alliance of RI and the Aging and Disability Resource center can provide caregiver crisis management and or practical caregiving help and advice.
CALL the ADRC, RI’s Aging and Disability Resource Center at Call (401) 462-4444
Or contact the Family Caregiver Alliance Program Officer at denise.meza@unitedwayri.org
Subscribe for Updates and Caregiving News
This program is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $75,024.00 with 75% percentage funded by ACL/HHS and $25,392.68 amount and 25%percentage funded by non-government source(s). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
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