Basic Human Needs Grants
Supports Rhode Island nonprofits delivering direct emergency assistance—like food, housing, and utilities—to residents in need, with an emphasis on volunteer-based organizations and immediate community impact.
Funder: Rhode Island Foundation
Due Dates: April 23, 2026 (Round One) | October 8, 2026 (Round Two)
Funding Amounts: Up to $5,000 per grant; one grant per organization per year.
Summary: Supports Rhode Island nonprofits providing direct emergency assistance (food, housing, utilities, etc.) to residents in need.
Key Information: Focus on volunteer-based organizations with minimal budgets; not available to individuals or for indirect costs.
Description
This program provides small grants to Rhode Island-based nonprofits that deliver direct emergency assistance to individuals and families in need. Eligible activities include food pantries, soup kitchens, clothing distribution, housing or rental assistance, prescription and utility assistance, transportation to work or appointments, child care for homeless families, and toiletries. The program emphasizes support for volunteer-based organizations with minimal operational budgets and aims to address social determinants of health through immediate, community-based interventions. Grants may support the launch of new programs or the continuation of established ones, but cannot serve as the sole funding source for ongoing efforts. Funding is not available for distribution of products or services to other nonprofits, indirect costs, capital or endowment efforts, or fundraising activities.
