Best Affordable Housing Grants for Nonprofits in Rhode Island

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking up to US $15,000 to strengthen organizational infrastructure can apply for capacity-building support, including planning, governance, fundraising, technology, and evaluation. With a mission to advance community priorities, Rhode Island Community Foundation provides funding for groups addressing areas like equitable and affordable housing alongside other key community needs.

Rhode Island affordable housing nonprofits focused on equitable, stable housing or economic mobility can access funding through the Bank Of America Charitable Foundation’s Neighborhood Builders Program. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations in designated markets receive multi-year capacity-building support and leadership development to expand affordable housing, homeownership, rental stability, workforce readiness, and financial resilience initiatives in their communities.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits and fiscally sponsored groups seeking programmatic or general operating support for equitable and affordable housing initiatives can apply for grants of US $15,000 - US $150,000. The Rhode Island Community Foundation’s Community Priority Grants also consider related work in areas like economic development, health care access, climate resilience, and DEIA-centered community programs.

Nonprofit organizations providing food, housing, or shelter to economically disadvantaged Rhode Island residents can receive US $1,000 - US $5,000 to support their services. Adelaide Dawson Lynch Trust funding can help affordable and supportive housing, shelter, and human services programs that serve people in need across the state, including special campaigns with larger or multi-year support.

Rhode Island local governments seeking support for affordable housing, community development, or related projects can access funding through the Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing’s CDBG-Affordable Housing program. Municipalities may subgrant these HUD CDBG funds to nonprofits and other entities for eligible activities that benefit low- and moderate-income residents and strengthen local living environments.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving low- and moderate-income residents through equitable and affordable housing, homeownership counseling, or community development can access funding through Webster Bank. Eligible organizations must operate within Webster’s footprint, fit at least one program area, and have at least two years of successful program history.

Rhode Island local governments seeking support for affordable housing, economic development, and neighborhood revitalization projects can apply for CDBG-Housing Rehab funding, primarily benefiting low- and moderate-income residents. Administered by the Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing, these HUD-funded grants go to municipalities, which may then support nonprofits and other entities for eligible activities.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting basic needs, income creation, stable housing, or community empowerment can apply for Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Stable Housing and Empowering Communities funding. Eligible organizations must be based in and serving approved Bank of America markets and are limited to one grant per calendar year, with a focus on low- and moderate-income communities.

With a mission to strengthen communities, Rockland Trust Charitable Foundation provides Rhode Island affordable housing nonprofits with US $2,500 - US $10,000 for programs serving primarily low-to-moderate income residents. Eligible 501(c)(3) public charities can fund shelter, supportive housing, homeownership counseling, rental assistance, and related services that help individuals and families remain safely housed.

501(c)(3) organizations serving Providence County, especially northern Rhode Island, can seek support for equitable and affordable housing, basic needs, and community-strengthening work. Focused on multiple sectors, the Rhode Island Community Foundation invites nonprofits to apply once per year across areas like housing and economic mobility, climate action and sustainability, and healthy, strong communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting education, youth, community development, basic needs, or affordable housing in Rhode Island and other Vermont Mutual Insurance Group territories can seek funding for programs that strengthen community well-being. Vermont Mutual Insurance Group provides support to initiatives that build healthy lives, reduce homelessness and hunger, and create strong, vibrant communities.

Rhode Island-based nonprofits, government agencies, and academic institutions can apply for the Rhode Island Community Foundation’s Catalyst Grants, awarding up to US $250,000 for innovative, collaborative initiatives. Projects addressing equitable and affordable housing, health, education, climate resilience, or related community priorities in Rhode Island, especially those advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, may be eligible.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking up to US $15,000 for capacity-building work can apply for this program supporting planning, operations, and DEIA-focused organizational development. Organizations working on equitable and affordable housing and other community priorities may receive funding or technical assistance through the Rhode Island Community Foundation’s twice-yearly, two-stage grant process.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Rhode Island serving low- to moderate-income individuals and families can seek funding for equitable and affordable housing initiatives through Eastern Bank Foundation’s Impact Grants, typically ranging from US $50,000 - US $150,000. With a mission to build stronger communities, the foundation also supports broader economic inclusion and mobility efforts.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking support for affordable housing and community revitalization projects can apply for grants that may include multi-year capital funding. Washington Trust Charitable Foundation also considers programs in youth and family services, health and human services, arts and culture, education, and conservation that directly benefit local communities.

Nonprofit organizations expanding access to health care, nutritious food, or stable, affordable housing in Rhode Island can apply for general operating support grants of US $50,000. CVS Health Foundation provides Rhode Island equitable and affordable housing groups with flexible funding to improve community health and address social determinants of health in local neighborhoods.

Textron Charitable Trust provides Rhode Island nonprofits and accredited K-12 institutions with funding for workforce development, education, arts and culture, community revitalization, and health and human services. Organizations advancing equitable and affordable housing, community development, and supportive housing or shelters in Rhode Island may be especially well positioned to benefit from this support.

The ROSS Rapid Response Program (RRP) by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides expedited funding to assist communities in addressing urgent social needs. This program offers one-time cost-reimbursable grants for service coordination and direct services, especially in response to emergencies like natural disasters or public health crises. By streamlining the application process, the RRP empowers local leaders to efficiently support residents in HUD-assisted housing, promoting self-sufficiency and resilience.

Nonprofit organizations working on hunger, housing, or financial education in Rhode Island can seek support to strengthen local services and programs. Grants from RRCU Gives Foundation help expand affordable housing efforts alongside food access and financial literacy initiatives. Funding is awarded annually, with applications in June and awards announced in August.

Aging-focused nonprofit leaders in Rhode Island working on livable communities and housing for adults 50-plus can access funding through AARP Foundation’s Purpose Prize. U.S.-based founders age 50 or older may receive US $75,000 and a year of organizational support to grow affordable, age-friendly housing and related community initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c) or 170(c) organizations working on equitable and affordable housing and related community development can receive up to US $1,000 in matched donations through this program, including those in Rhode Island. Regions Bank provides U.S. housing and community organizations with matching gifts when recent retirees contribute at least $25.

AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Opportunity

About RSVP

Established in 1971 and now one of the largest senior volunteer programs in the nation, AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP engages people ages 55 and older in a diverse range of volunteer activities. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers tutor children, help prepare simple taxes, assist victims of natural disasters, provide nutrition/food support, facilitate opioid and substance abuse education workshops, and serve in their communities in many other ways. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments ranging from a few hours to a maximum of 40 hours per week. While serving, AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers improve their own lives by staying active and civically engaged. 

Funding Priorities

AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP programming is designed to meet community needs. Applicants may propose activities intended to address community needs by thoroughly explaining the unmet need and activities to be completed by volunteers to address that need. In addition, AmeriCorps is interested in programming that addresses agency priorities. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP priorities for this funding opportunity are:

• Supporting Older Adults and Caregivers: Provide respite, support groups, system navigation, care coordination, and resources for older adults, including custodial grandparents, and caregivers.
• Helping Older Adults Re-enter the Workforce: Offer job readiness, mentoring, training, and remove barriers to employment for older adults (volunteers provide services, not seek jobs).
• Building Strong Families: Support parents in helping children succeed, mentor parents, connect families to resources, and strengthen community partnerships.
• Preventing and Mitigating Fraud and Scams: Use digital navigators and other strategies to protect older adults from financial fraud and exploitation, including emerging AI-driven scams.
• Reducing Homelessness: Develop or renovate affordable housing, assist people experiencing homelessness in finding and maintaining permanent housing, and address housing needs for vulnerable populations.
• Supporting Behavioral Health Initiatives: Improve mental health, reduce isolation, prevent substance use, provide harm reduction tools (Naloxone, fentanyl test strips), peer support, and recovery services.

Award Funding Requirements

Applicants must construct the budget in the following manner. The federal share of the budget must not exceed $75,000 plus up to $350 for every unduplicated volunteer, whether or not they serve in an outcome-based work plan. 

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

Fellowship for Equitable Development

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition matches top-level graduate degree students with premiere community development organizations.

NCRC is looking for fellowship projects that move the needle on housing, small business development, and workforce development. Projects may directly result in community outcomes in these focus areas, or involve work with community members to create plans or project pipelines that will solve local issues in these areas.

The NCRC Fellowship cultivates the next generation of community development leaders and empowers them to tackle the issues of tomorrow. The community development sector will face significant challenges in the coming decades from climate change, widening wealth gaps, food insecurities, extreme housing shortages and other needs. These challenges will disproportionately impact low-wealth communities and communities of color. Therefore, it is NCRC’s intention and pledge to uphold the values of community empowerment in the fellowship program.

Interested students and host organizations must apply for this fellowship opportunity.

Program Benefits for Student Fellows Include:

• High-quality training and support from regional leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• A $20,000 stipend for the eight-month, part-time (20-hours per week) fellowship
• The opportunity to meet with leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• Academic credit, in accordance with the policies of the Fellows’ respective universities
• Complimentary admission to the NCRC annual Just Economy Conference

Program Benefits for Host Organizations Include:

• Fresh, innovative talent to help advance organizational mission
• The opportunity to help shape the next generation of community development leaders
• Participation in a fellowship program at little to no cost

The Process

1. NCRC Members Apply; 2. NCRC Selects Member Projects; 3. Students Apply To Selected Projects; 4. Top Student Candidates Interviewed; 5. NCRC & Member Select Student Fellow; 6. NCRC Onboards Member & Student 7. Fellowship Commences

Host Partnerships

Fellowship host partners must be NCRC members. If your organization would like to participate in the Fellowship but is not a member, you can join here and then apply.

Host Requirements

• A compelling project to provide a challenging assignment for fellows with real world application.
• Must commit to a schedule with at least one day per week in office for both fellow and host supervisor.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

Fellowship for Equitable Development

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition matches top-level graduate degree students with premiere community development organizations.

NCRC is looking for fellowship projects that move the needle on housing, small business development, and workforce development. Projects may directly result in community outcomes in these focus areas, or involve work with community members to create plans or project pipelines that will solve local issues in these areas.

The NCRC Fellowship cultivates the next generation of community development leaders and empowers them to tackle the issues of tomorrow. The community development sector will face significant challenges in the coming decades from climate change, widening wealth gaps, food insecurities, extreme housing shortages and other needs. These challenges will disproportionately impact low-wealth communities and communities of color. Therefore, it is NCRC’s intention and pledge to uphold the values of community empowerment in the fellowship program.

Interested students and host organizations must apply for this fellowship opportunity.

Program Benefits for Student Fellows Include:

• High-quality training and support from regional leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• A $20,000 stipend for the eight-month, part-time (20-hours per week) fellowship
• The opportunity to meet with leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• Academic credit, in accordance with the policies of the Fellows’ respective universities
• Complimentary admission to the NCRC annual Just Economy Conference

Program Benefits for Host Organizations Include:

• Fresh, innovative talent to help advance organizational mission
• The opportunity to help shape the next generation of community development leaders
• Participation in a fellowship program at little to no cost

The Process

1. NCRC Members Apply; 2. NCRC Selects Member Projects; 3. Students Apply To Selected Projects; 4. Top Student Candidates Interviewed; 5. NCRC & Member Select Student Fellow; 6. NCRC Onboards Member & Student 7. Fellowship Commences

Student Fellow Applications

Fellow applications will open for eligible students once host projects have been reviewed and finalists selected. Students will apply to be considered for a specific host project. Top student candidates will be interviewed by NCRC as well as the host organization.

Fellow Requirements

• Must provide documentation confirming active enrollment (i.e. Letter of Enrollment from Registrar or transcript)
• Must commit to fellowship for full Period of September 14, 2026-May 14, 2027 academic school year
• Must commit to a 20 hour/week fellowship
• Must commit to a schedule with at least one day per week in-office of host organization

The Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grants for Fiscal Year 2025 support revitalization efforts in severely distressed public housing and surrounding neighborhoods. This program encourages collaboration among local governments, housing agencies, and community partners to create comprehensive plans aimed at improving housing quality, promoting upward mobility for residents, and attracting long-term investment for neighborhood development. Successful applicants will implement their Transformation Plans, which were developed through prior Planning Grants to enhance the quality of life for residents.

Wegmans Family Foundation Inc focuses on cultivating healthy communities through support for hunger relief, health initiatives, education, and youth programs. They prioritize collaborations with local nonprofits to enhance community well-being, offering assistance in key areas like economic mobility and youth engagement. Despite their wide-ranging support, they have specific ineligibility criteria, such as not accommodating personal requests or solicitation on their property, aiming to direct resources effectively where they are needed most.