Benefits Counseling

Benefits counseling was initially developed for the PVDGI pilot as part of an effort to inform potential participants how the PVDGI program may impact their public benefits. The expanded benefits counseling pilot program, designed by the City of Providence and DHS, is funded through a $100,000 grant from DHS and administered by Amos House and Dorcas International. Benefits counselors at Amos House and Dorcas International are trained on all public benefits programs available in Rhode Island.

Individuals who participate in this newly-expanded benefits counseling will be screened for all benefits programs they may be eligible to receive, and receive application support as well as information on how life changes may potentially impact their benefits. After benefits counseling, individuals will be empowered to make fully informed decisions about available benefits.

All Rhode Island residents are now eligible to schedule benefits counseling at Amos House or Dorcas International.

Counselors are available Monday through Friday at Amos House from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM and at Dorcas International from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Sessions will last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Sessions are available via phone, virtually or in-person in both English and Spanish, with interpretation for other languages available. Counseling participants should have an understanding of their income and benefits they currently receive.

Anyone interested in participating may schedule a benefits counseling appointment by contacting Amos House at 401-272-0220 or Dorcas International at 401-784-8600.