PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — With homelessness on the rise, Rhode Island leaders have obtained millions of dollars to help address the crisis. On Wednesday, Sen. Jack Reed announced $17.3 million in federal Continuum of Care (CoC) grants, aimed at coordinating housing and supportive services for those experiencing homelessness. The announcement comes as calls grow for Gov. Dan McKee to declare homelessness a state of emergency. READ: RI senators push for emergency declaration to address homelessness crisis A January 2024 survey identified 2,442 Rhode Islanders as lacking stable, adequate housing—an increase of about 35% from the previous year, according to Reed’s office. CoC funding supports a range of homeless assistance efforts, including permanent supportive housing, rapid rehousing, and services to prevent youth homelessness. It will also help renew ongoing projects by local nonprofits and community organizations. "Everyone deserves a safe, healthy, and warm place to call home," Reed said. "We must continue our work to ensure that Rhode Islanders who are experiencing homelessness have easy access to comprehensive, effective services that help to break the cycle of poverty and offer pathways to supportive, stable housing." Some of the state and local organizations receiving funding include: Crossroads Rhode Island House of Hope Community Development Corporation Foster Forward Rhode Island Coalition to End Homelessness Sojourner House Those in need of shelter can contact the Rhode Island Coalition to End Homelessness helpline at (401) 277-4316. ‘It’s time to listen’: Protesters demand action on homelessness as pallet shelters sit empty Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW