Effective October 1, 2025, clients are no longer required to go through Coordinated Entry to access shelter. Instead, seven Regional Access Points are now available to help connect households experiencing or at risk of homelessness to shelter and housing resources.

What Are They:

Regional Access Points (RAPs) are local, "one stop shops" where individuals and households experiencing homelessness can begin the process of accessing housing, supportive services, and emergency shelter. In addition, RAPs provide prevention and diversion support, such as employment navigation and connections to critical community resources. Why They Matter:

RAPs make the housing and emergency shelter system easier to navigate by taking a person-centered approach-prioritizing each individual's unique needs, easing access to emergency shelter and services across the state, and connecting people more quickly to the right support. By addressing the most immediate needs through referrals to appropriate emergency shelter and housing related services, they ensure that help is tailored to the person, not just the process. Who They Serve:

Individuals and families experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness How to Reach a RAP:

You can reach a RAP by working with your case worker, visiting in person during the hours listed or calling the main number to schedule an appointment.

Learn More and Find a Regional Access Point near you

You can also encourage Rhode Islanders in need of emergency housing to call or text 211 at United Way of Rhode Island.

Edited 10-17-2025 10:23 AM