Get Involved with Better Lives Rhode Island

Whether you're giving your time, resources, or voice—there are many ways to support Better Lives Rhode Island. Together, we serve our neighbors facing hunger and homelessness in Providence and across Rhode Island.


If you're looking for ways to volunteer at a food pantry in Providence, donate, or partner with our mission, you're in the right place.

Homeless and not sure what to do next?

or visit our Day Center at 12 Abbott Park Place.

Volunteer With Us

Join us in serving the community with compassion and consistency.

  • Help stock shelves or guide shoppers at our food pantry in Providence
  • Serve meals or clean up at our Friday Community Meal downtown
  • Assemble hygiene kits or provide support through RI homeless outreach
  • Host a table at community events or seasonal drives

Whether you can help once or every week, we’ll find a place for you. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, and we welcome individuals, families, corporate teams, and faith groups.

Sponsor a Friday Community Meal

Want to make a tangible impact? For $300–$400, you can fully sponsor a Friday meal for 180+ guests at our Community Meal at 134 Mathewson Street.

  • Honor a loved one
  • Celebrate a birthday or business milestone
  • Sponsor as a group, company, or congregation

Sponsors may choose to serve the meal, share a message, or remain anonymous. It’s a simple, powerful way to give back.

Shop Our Amazon Wishlist

Prefer to give tangible items? Our Amazon Wishlist is updated regularly with supplies that meet real, immediate needs in our pantry and outreach programs.


You can send items directly to us—no drop-off needed. Some of the items we’re most often looking for include:

  • Tents
  • Tarps
  • Sleeping bags
  • Seasonal items like sunscreen, bug spray, hats, gloves, and winter gear



Your purchase helps us provide comfort, dignity, and safety to those experiencing homelessness in Providence and across Rhode Island.

Join Our Team

We’re always looking for compassionate, driven people who want to make a difference in Rhode Island. If you’re looking for a job where you help create better lives, check out our open positions. 


Interested parties please submit your resume and cover letter via email to mjones@betterlivesri.org.


Better Lives RI is an equal opportunity employer and offers generous benefits. We are committed to diversity and inclusion in the selection process.

Thank you for expressing interest in joining Better Lives RI. We value your commitment to our vital mission.


Currently, we are seeking CASE MANAGERS. 

These professionals work closely with clients to provide essential services.


We also invite you to think about volunteering or donating to help us fight hunger and support those without homes.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Want to stay in the loop on our programs, needs, and events? Subscribe to our email newsletter for occasional updates on:

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Community impact

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Holiday drives and campaigns

Organize a Food Drive or Fundraiser

Schools, businesses, congregations, and community groups are encouraged to host food drives, fundraising events, or supply collections to support our work.

Become a Sponsor or Partner

We work with businesses, churches, foundations, and nonprofits across Rhode Island who want to support the mission of Better Lives RI.



If you’d like to partner on a project, sponsor an initiative, or form a long-term relationship that supports food security and RI homeless services, let’s talk.