Proclaiming March 10th, 2026, to Be "Homeless Service Provider Day" in the State of Rhode Island

WHEREAS, Safe, reliable, and affordable housing is fundamental to the health, dignity, and well-being of all people; and

WHEREAS, Homelessness remains a pressing challenge in the State of Rhode Island, where during the Point in Time count of January 2025, 2,3 Rhode Islanders were experiencing homelessness, including individuals, families with children, veterans, and youth, reflecting the ongoing affordability crisis and economic pressures facing our communities; and

WHEREAS, Chronic homelessness continues to affect more than 1,000 individuals statewide, and shelter systems and outreach providers work at or beyond capacity to meet the growing and complex needs of Rhode Island’s unhoused residents; and

WHEREAS, Homeless service providers, including nonprofit organizations, faith-based institutions, outreach teams, shelter staff, case managers, and dedicated volunteers, serve on the front lines each day, delivering emergency shelter, transitional and permanent supportive housing, street outreach, meals and other basic needs, case management services, and pathways to long- term stability; and

WHEREAS, Homeless Service Provider Day, established by the National Coalition for the Homeless, recognizes the extraordinary commitment, resilience, and compassion of those working to prevent and end homelessness, and acknowledges that this critical work continues every day to support the State’s unhoused neighbors and advance lasting housing solutions; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby declares March th of 2026 to be “Homeless Service Provider Day” in the State of Rhode Island, and furthermore, urges all Rhode Islanders to recognize and express gratitude to the individuals and organizations whose steadfast service strengthens our communities and affirms the dignity and worth of every person; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to Ms. Melina Lodge, Executive Director, Housing Network of Rhode Island/Community Housing Land Trust.