Crossroads Receives $495K From City of Providence for Homelessness Intervention Initiative

Crossroads Receives $495K From City of Providence for Homelessness Intervention Initiative

Elected officials and nonprofit executives have announced that the City of Providence has provided a $495,000 award to Crossroads Rhode Island to support a new citywide mobile diversion program for Providence residents experiencing unsheltered homelessness.

Through this intervention initiative, Crossroads Rhode Island will assist individuals currently living in places not meant for human habitation to either regain permanent housing or enter a shelter or transitional housing program. Assistance can range from financial support for costs related to securing housing to referrals for mental and behavioral health supports.

“Our city and state are facing a housing affordability crisis and a growing need for mental health and social service supports,” said Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza. “This investment is just the beginning of allocating our Providence Rescue Plan dollars to supporting the crucial work of partners like Crossroads Rhode Island, who are dedicated to serving our unsheltered neighbors. Additionally, I am thankful for partners like the Rhode Island Foundation, Downtown Improvement District and the Providence Foundation who are collaborating with us to address this critical need in our city."

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With this increased support, Crossroads says that along with its community partners, it will be able to expand diversion and intervention programs for individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness throughout the city.

"The City of Providence is to be commended for making housing for its most vulnerable residents a priority,” said Karen Santilli, president and CEO of Crossroads. “This critical funding will allow us to provide homeless services directly to those who are sleeping outside. Armed with a laptop and hot spot, our Mobile Diversion case managers will go out into the community and connect people with the services they need to end their homelessness, such as housing problem-solving and one-time financial support.”

The City of Providence allocated a portion of American Rescue Plan funding in July, prioritizing investments for homelessness interventions. Funding was finalized by a City Council ordinance and signed into law by Mayor Elorza.

"The City has emergency housing services dollars we need to put to use now," said Councilwoman Mary Kay Harris (Ward 11). "Winter is coming and people experiencing homelessness need critical services as soon as possible."