Rhode Island Community Action Association

It is estimated that in Rhode Island almost 12% of the population and 18% of children live at or below the poverty level.

Westbay belongs to the Rhode Island Community Action Association. RICAA works with all eight Community Action Programs (CAPS) in Rhode Island to coordinate policy, advocacy, public outreach, and services for those in crisis and poverty. Since 1992, the Rhode Island Community Action Association has been a catalyst for change and a vital part of a coordinated effort to eliminate poverty in our state.

This statewide network has been the safety net for economically disadvantaged and working poor families for more than 40 years. Individually and collectively, the agencies work to eliminate the causes and effects of poverty and to open doors to self-sufficiency and better lives.

What We Do as an Association:

• Serve as the collective voice and representative for our member agencies.

• Advocate at the state and national level on policy, budget and legislative matters that will impact low and middle income Rhode Islander residents.

• Partner with statewide organizations to develop unified strategies to eradicate poverty and support people on their journey towards self-sufficiency.

• Conduct research and raise awareness among member agencies and the community on state and national policy issues.

RICAA maintains an office at 311 Doric Avenue, Cranston. http://www.ricommunityaction.org/

For more information on national community action initiatives, visit Community Action Partnership.