JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $500,000 TO THE UNITED WAY OF RHODE ISLAND FOR THE 2-1-1 HUMAN SERVICES HOTLINE

This bill (SR 871) appropriates $500,000 from the state treasury to fund the operational costs of Rhode Island's 2-1-1 human services hotline. The 2-1-1 system, operated by the United Way of Rhode Island, provides free, confidential, 24/7 assistance in nearly 200 languages to help residents access resources for housing, healthcare, food, childcare, and crisis support. The funding supports the existing service, which handled over 190,000 requests in 2023-2024 and aids state agencies by identifying community needs. The resolution passed the Senate on June 20, 2025, and directs the state controller to pay the United Way upon verification.