McKee Administration Announces Medicaid Renewal Outreach Mini-Grants for Community Organizations

Published on Monday, January 22, 2024

Cranston, Rhode Island - The McKee Administration today opened applications for a third round of mini-grants for community-based organizations to support outreach related to Medicaid renewals. 

“Since renewals restarted in April 2023, EOHHS, in collaboration with the Department of Human Services and HealthSource RI, has taken many steps to support continued health coverage for Medicaid members in Rhode Island,” said EOHHS Secretary Richard Charest. “Our partnerships with community-based organizations have created a strong network of support throughout the state, and it’s our hope that this funding will further the reach of their efforts.” 

Community organizations can apply for mini-grants in four categories: technology, training, outreach, and language and cultural competency. Organizations can be awarded up to $4,950 for each of the mini-grant categories, for a total of up to $19,800. 

Applicants are encouraged to leverage their strengths and explicitly describe how funding for the proposed scope of work will supplement funds directed to each applicant’s mission. 

“There are more than 350,000 Rhode Islanders enrolled in the Medicaid program who are having their eligibility reviewed for the first time since before the pandemic,” said Medicaid Director Kristin Sousa. “We are grateful to our community partners who continue to meet people where they are, and we hope that continuing the mini-grant program will bolster their ability to provide support when it matters most.” 

In 2023, EOHHS distributed two rounds of mini-grants to support Medicaid renewal outreach. In May 2023, EOHHS awarded nearly $100,000 to 20 community organizations. During the second round of mini grants in August 2023, $35,000 in grants were awarded to seven community organizations. 

“As this process continues, we know there are still those who need to be reached with important information,” said Kimberly Merolla-Brito, Director of DHS. “Among those, we are now prioritizing households with children. This additional round of funding will further play an important role in helping us mobilize our community partners to connect with Rhode Islanders.”  

“We are continuing this vital work of reaching our latest groups of households with children, especially among at-risk populations including those in high-density communities, BIPOC individuals, and individuals with disabilities or behavioral health conditions,” said Lindsay M. Lang, Director of HSRI. “The engagement of partners, who we can better support through these grants, is a key aspect to fulfilling this charge.” 

Applications are due by February 9, 2024. Awards will be announced on February 23, 2024. To learn more about the mini-grant program and how to apply, community organizations are encouraged to visit staycovered.ri.gov/mini-grant.

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