New 211 program strengthens resources for Rhode Island’s 206,000 family caregivers
Providence, R.I. (December 2, 2025) – United Way of RI, The Family Caregiver Alliance of RI, and AARP Rhode Island have expanded the Caregiver Support Program, making it easier for Rhode Islanders who care for adult loved ones to find trusted guidance and local resources with a single call to 211. Thanks to support from United Way Worldwide, Rhode Island is the 30th state to join this growing effort that blends AARP’s caregiving expertise with the local strength of 211 and the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC).
The Caregiver Support Program helps caregivers connect to essential services for themselves and their loved ones via the 211 helpline. It was designed to improve access to practical supports and make it easier to navigate the complex responsibilities that come with being a caregiver.
“Caregiving is one of the most important and challenging roles someone will ever take on,” said Cortney Nicolato, president and CEO, United Way of RI. “When you’re a caregiver, there is a real courage in picking up the phone and saying, ‘I need help.’ Half of the equation is asking, the other half is getting the right guidance. And that’s what this partnership is all about.”
An estimated 206,000 Rhode Islanders, about 40 percent of the state’s population, provide care for an older adult, or an adult or child with a disability. Many do not think of themselves as caregivers, and as a result, often miss out on vital supports that could ease emotional, financial, and physical strain.
For years, United Way of RI’s 211 and the ADRC have been a trusted source of information for Rhode Islanders while serving as the front door to a wide range of services and programs for all residents. The free, confidential helpline is available 24/7, 365, and in more than 180 languages. It provides callers a personal, human connection with a trained community resource specialist who takes the time to understand what they’re experiencing and connect them with local supports. Through the extended program, caregivers who call 211 can receive:
• Local referrals for transportation, food delivery, respite care and caregiver supports, veterans’ benefits, and more.
• Supports to address their own basic needs, like housing, employment, financial assistance, and emotional support.
• Access to AARP caregiving tools and guides across a range of specialized topics like home safety and navigating health systems.
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AARP and United Way Worldwide created the Caregiver Support Program to help address the top need among the country’s 63 million family caregivers: finding relevant caregiving resources and local support. Nationwide, the 211 network is the most comprehensive source of information about local resources in the country.
Rhode Islanders seeking caregiver support can call 211 at any time or visit 211RI.org for more information.
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