| NOTE: As we publish, we are learning that the LIHEAP heating assistance program is beginning to be active in Rhode Island, though no notices have gone out – check with your energy provider – not your CAP agency – as they have received their renewal amounts – expect estimated 20% less than less year.
Also – the Good Neighbor Energy Fund, financed by sponsoring energy companies, United Way of Rhode Island, the business community, and the people of Rhode Island, is run through United Way – contact 2-1-1
Most Rev. Bruce A. Lewandowski, C.Ss.R., Bishop of Providence has kicked off the 2025-26 Keep the Heat On campaign, presenting $2,500 to Muraina “Morris” Akinfolarin, Executive Director of Oasis International and Yolanda Macias, Associate Manager and Co-Founder of Conexión Latina. The donations will be used for heating assistance for clients of these agencies that have difficulties accessing help due to cultural or language barriers.
 L to R: Muraina “Morris” Akinfolarin, Executive Director of Oasis International, Yolanda Macias, Associate Manager and Co-Founder of Conexión Latina, Most Rev. Bruce A. Lewandowski, C.Ss.R., Bishop of Providence, James Jahnz, Secretary for Catholic Charities and Social Ministry. Photo: Andrzej Skonieczny Keep the Heat On, celebrated its 20th anniversary on October 31, 2025, of providing emergency home heating oil delivery and utility bill assistance to Rhode Islanders in need who have exhausted all other public and private forms of assistance.
Since the beginning of the program, Keep the Heat On has contributed more than $4.6 million of heating assistance to more than 18,452 Rhode Island households (families and individuals) through grants from the Catholic diocese and over 12,072 private contributions to help keep needy Rhode Islanders warm during the winter.
Rhode Islanders in need can review their qualifications to receive assistance through the website https://HeatRI.com/ or by calling 401-421-7833. Donations to the fund are also accepted on the website.
Oasis International is a nonprofit, 501(c) (3), organization serving the African immigrant Community and the low-income neighborhoods of the West End, Elmwood, Upper Southwest Providence, Lower Southwest Providence, and Washington Park. Oasis International started in 1992 as an effort to identify and maintain an infrastructure for professional development for its members. Through the exchange of technical information, general business assistance, and the promotion of cultural activities, Oasis International is dedicated to long-term social exchange and cultural and economic development in our neighborhoods.
Conexión Latina Newport was established to support the needs of the Hispanic/Latino community by creating connections and partnerships with resources and advocacy, and creating pathways to increase access and representation throughout the city of Newport, RI. |
Very needed and appreciated Program(s) – GOD Bless such efforts!