11/03/2025
It is that time of the year when our temperatures begin to drop, the days become shorter with sunlight and we begin a half-hearted hibernation of sorts.
This year, there is much angst for many with the cost of goods and services increasing over past months and now SNAP benefits ending; don't even mention healthcare and the mess that seems to be in. What is one to do?
First, take a breath--there are ways to navigate these challenging days that are not so painful and/or fearful.
For those with economic challenges, we would suggest you contact your local CAP or community action agency as a first contact. In Southern Rhode Island that is Tri-County Community Action at 401-515-2432. Each of your representatives also has a community liaison person on staff. Contact your state representative or senator for questions and help. The State House number if you need to learn who your representative is, is (202) 224-3121. Senators have a number of ways you can contact them including email and phone contacts or contact the Senate fiscal office at (401)222-2480, they can also direct you to your senator.
If you are food insecure, in our region Rhode Island Center Assisting Those in Need, Carolina is one of our go to food pantries. They will provide a week's worth of food each week for those in greatest need. SRIV picks up and delivers to homebound seniors each week. RICAN can be reached at 401-364-9412.
Other amazing food pantries include North Kingstown Food Pantry 401-885-3663; Jonnycake Center of Westerly 401-377-8069; St. Luke's Interfaith Food Pantry 401-884-4116; St. Peter's Narragansett 401- 783-4623; St. Andrew Lutheran Church Charlestown 401-322-0088; Jonnycake Center for Hope 401-789-1559 and don't forget multiple churches in the area have small food pantries, some prepare meals for seniors, children, and those in great need. There are multiple resources if you are in need.
If you are NOT in need, but you can donate: Please do so to one of these agencies. Shelf stable, unopened foods are best or call them to find out what the greatest need is. Thank you for being part of our wonderful community across southern Rhode Island.
