Best Affordable Housing Grants for Nonprofits in Rhode Island

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

RIHousing

We work everyday to ensure that all people who live and work in Rhode Island can afford a home that meets their needs. We do this by providing financing, education and assistance to help Rhode Islanders buy, build, rent and keep a home. Created by the General Assembly in 1973, RIHousing is a self-sustaining corporation and receives no state funding for operations.

Our success is powered by dedicated people who care deeply about the communities we serve. RIHousing has been recognized as one of Rhode Island’s “Best Places to Work” for multiple years. We offer a supportive environment that values, professional growth, and work-life balance.

LeadSafe Homes Program

RIHousing’s LeadSafe Homes Program provides financial assistance to help property owners reduce lead and other environmental hazards in their homes and investment properties. Funding supports inspections, remediation, and essential repairs that improve safety for families, tenants, and the broader community. RIHousing’s LeadSafe Homes Program provides remediation of lead-paint based hazards, such as:

• New windows and doors
• Interior and exterior painting
• Soil remediation
• There are also resources to provide other healthy homes improvements, including, but not limited to, air quality improvements such as dryer vents and bathroom fans and fixing broken railings.

The Fair Housing Initiatives Program (FHIP), established by Congress in 1988, aims to fund organizations to combat discriminatory housing practices. The Education and Outreach Initiative (EOI) educates stakeholders about their rights under fair housing laws. Key components include the National Media Campaign, which promotes fair housing awareness nationally, and local programs that support community-based outreach. HUD oversees the process, ensuring compliance and monitoring of funded initiatives to enhance fair housing practices.

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.

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.

Disabled Veterans National Foundation

The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) was established in 2007 to support veterans facing challenges that traditional systems could not fully address. From its earliest days, DVNF has been focused on closing critical gaps in care and providing resources that help veterans rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.

Guided by this commitment, DVNF developed its Health & Comfort programs, offering emergency financial assistance, housing transition support, food assistance, comfort kits, and wellness initiatives. These programs are designed to meet veterans where they are and to provide practical solutions that restore hope and stability. Today, DVNF continues to grow as a trusted national nonprofit. Every day, our team works with a clear purpose: to change lives for the men and women who have served our country.

Homeless To Housing Program - Financial Assistance

DVNF is dedicated to assisting disabled and at-risk veterans in their transition from homelessness to permanent housing. Recognizing that securing a home is a significant milestone, DVNF understands that true stability is achieved when a house becomes a home, furnished with essential items that provide comfort and functionality. We help cover essential costs related to securing and creating comfortable housing for at-risk veterans.

The H2H Program offers comprehensive support to veterans by providing: Financial Assistance of up to $2,000 to cover essential costs related to securing permanent housing, such as security deposits and initial rent payments.

For Financial Assistance: Payments are processed through two payment cycles each month, around the 15th and 30th. If your payment is delayed beyond the expected date, a Promissory Note of Payment will be issued to the vendor, confirming our organization's responsibility and requesting that no penalties be applied to the applicant.

Chelsea Groton Foundation, Inc. was established in 1998 as a Section 501(c)(3) organization. Initially endowed with a $2 million dollar donation from Chelsea Groton Bank, the Foundation has awarded over $8.1 million in grants to non-profit organizations in the Bank’s Connecticut and Rhode Island market areas.The Foundation’s mission is to support the ongoing commitment in partnership to the long-term growth of our community. Along with Chelsea Groton Bank, the Foundation is committed to belonging, equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring an ongoing sense of belonging for all, today and in the future.

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.

Disabled Veterans National Foundation

The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) was established in 2007 to support veterans facing challenges that traditional systems could not fully address. From its earliest days, DVNF has been focused on closing critical gaps in care and providing resources that help veterans rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.

Guided by this commitment, DVNF developed its Health & Comfort programs, offering emergency financial assistance, housing transition support, food assistance, comfort kits, and wellness initiatives. These programs are designed to meet veterans where they are and to provide practical solutions that restore hope and stability. Today, DVNF continues to grow as a trusted national nonprofit. Every day, our team works with a clear purpose: to change lives for the men and women who have served our country.

Homeless To Housing Program - Household Comfort Support

DVNF is dedicated to assisting disabled and at-risk veterans in their transition from homelessness to permanent housing. Recognizing that securing a home is a significant milestone, DVNF understands that true stability is achieved when a house becomes a home, furnished with essential items that provide comfort and functionality. We help cover essential costs related to securing and creating comfortable housing for at-risk veterans.

The H2H Program offers comprehensive support to veterans by providing: Household Comfort Support of up to $2,000 worth of essential household items to ensure veterans have a stable, safe, and comfortable living environment.

For Financial Assistance: Payments are processed through two payment cycles each month, around the 15th and 30th. For Furniture Assistance: Once the List of Items form is completed, DVNF staff will purchase the requested items, which should arrive within 7-10 business days.

The Community Development Block Grant Program for Indian Tribes and Alaska Native Villages aims to foster the development of viable communities by providing funding for housing, living environments, and economic opportunities, primarily benefiting low- and moderate-income individuals. The program is competitive, offering both single-purpose and imminent threat grants to address urgent public health and safety issues, ensuring that tribes can improve their community welfare effectively.

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.

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.