Between rising grocery costs and kids being out of school requesting an unspeakable amount of snacks each day, there is no denying that help with the grocery bill would be beneficial to many. There are multiple Rhode Island food resources available that are especially helpful for residents who may not meet the specific criteria for state assistance, but would still benefit from available resources.
Low-Cost Rhode Island Food Resources
Project Hand Up is a drive-up food service located in West Warwick. Proper identification is required along with a $6 donation, providing families with roughly $200 worth of groceries.
The Genesis Project is a pantry resource located in Manville. You can shop their large selection of groceries for a $5 donation, but if you are unable to pay at that visit they will not turn away shoppers.
Free Rhode Island Food Resources
Meals on Wheels No Cost Market is a free market located in Providence serving all Rhode Island residents. Proof of residency is required for the first visit only.
Rhode Island Community Food Banks offers over 100 free and accessible pantries that are available for families based on residence. Use their assistance finder to find the locations that serve your area.
On-Site Meals
During the summer, children and teens are able to enjoy a free lunch at their local meal site. Use this site finder to locate the program closest to you.
Pantry Delivery Service
If transportation is an obstacle in getting to your local pantry, residents of Central Falls, Providence, Cranston, and Pawtucket are able to apply for free food delivery via Cartwheel RI. This service is available once per month.
Tips for Kids and Food Pantry Visits
With this guide and these resources available to prep your pantry, it is now time to prep the kids. A first visit to a food pantry or similar resource can bring up many questions for curious children. Fortunately, there are a few great books available that feature age-appropriate stories that address food insecurity and visits to food pantries.
Here are three titles to try on your next library visit:
Reading these books with children can help them gain a better understanding and also provide a sense of security versus embarrassment about getting food aid. Together we can reduce the stigma behind seeking and accepting help. We can do this starting right in our homes, with our own families.
These Rhode Island food resources are readily available to families with the understanding that everyone at one point or another can benefit from help. Please share in the comments if you know of other resources available for those in our community.
