RI Commits $9.5 Million To Expand Help Preventing Housing Insecurity

RHODE ISLAND — Rhode Island has committed $9.5 million in federal funds to expand legal services supporting residents experiencing housing insecurity across the state, Gov. Dan McKee and Secretary of Housing Secretary Josh Saal said Friday.

"All Rhode Islanders, regardless of their financial situations, deserve a shot at securing and maintaining safe housing," McKee said in a statement. "By increasing access to housing-related legal services, we are aiming to protect individuals and families who may be at risk of losing their homes, and ensure their interests are fairly and professionally represented in our housing courts across the state."

State officials are seeking proposals from qualified law firms and attorneys to provide housing-related legal services to tenants whose household income is no more than 80 percent of area median income. These services may include eviction prevention and eviction diversion programs, mediation between landlords and tenants, case management related to housing stability, housing counseling, fair housing counseling and more.

Applicants are encouraged to collaborate with other organizations to outline a plan for obligating and spending up to $9.5M on housing stability services to be provided statewide.

Funding for this initiative came from President Joe Biden's American Rescue Plan Act.

"While the long-term solution to addressing housing instability and homelessness is to create more affordable housing, we must ensure all Rhode Islanders are able to access the services and supports they need to remain in their current homes," Saal said. "The services funded through this solicitation come at a time when we know evictions peak - during the winter months and as the holiday season approaches. This funding will connect low-income and vulnerable residents to resources when they need it most."

Interested parties can learn more and submit proposals online, by visiting the state's division of purchases website and searching for RFP #23002007. The deadline to submit proposals is Tuesday, Nov. 22. Questions should be directed to Gail Walsh, at the Division of Purchasing at gail.walsh@purchasing.ri.gov.