Transitional Housing for WOMEN Leaving Incarceration in Providence, RI

Better Lives Rhode Island offers a safe, supportive transitional housing program in Providence for women released from incarceration who would otherwise be homeless. This unique program provides structured, trauma-informed housing and wraparound support to help women reenter the community with dignity and stability.


When someone leaves prison with no place to go, the chances of returning to incarceration are almost guaranteed. Our goal is to change that.

Homeless and not sure what to do next?

or visit our Day Center at 12 Abbott Park Place.

About the Program

Our transitional housing program in Rhode Island serves up to six adult women at a time in a fully staffed home located in a residential neighborhood of Providence. This program is designed to offer the time, tools, and care needed to break the cycle of homelessness and incarceration.

  • 24/7 support from trained staff
  • A welcoming, home-like setting—not a shelter
  • A structured reentry program with individualized case management
  • Full access to all Better Lives RI services, including the [Food Pantry] and [Community Meal]

Breaking the Cycle: A Reentry Approach that Works

Without stable housing, formerly incarcerated women face near-certain recidivism. Our mission is to reduce that rate through access to safe housing, consistent support, and a real opportunity to rebuild.

A black and white drawing of a house with three roofs.
A pair of handcuffs on a chain on a white background.
A hand is holding a scale of justice in its palm.
Integrated support with legal, health, and food services through Better Lives RI

This is not emergency shelter. It is a pathway toward healing and independence.

Program Features

Residents in the program receive:

  • Case management to set goals and track progress
  • Assistance with job searches and employment readiness
  • Access to medical, mental health, and substance use treatment
  • Life skills training—cooking, budgeting, household responsibilities
  • Emotional support and community-building

We focus on addressing the root causes of instability to create a strong foundation for life after incarceration.

Meet with a Case Manager

If you’re not sure where to begin, just stop in during our open hours. You’ll be welcomed by a staff member and given the opportunity to meet with a case manager—usually the same day.


You can also call ahead to ask questions or discuss what to bring.

A black silhouette of a telephone on a white background.

Who Is Eligible

The program serves:

01

Women (18+) recently released from prison or jail who are unhoused or at risk of homelessness upon release

02

Referred by the RI Department of Corrections or a partner reentry agency


03

We also accept direct inquiries when space is available

For placement or referral, call 401-454-7422.

How You Can Help

This program is 100% supported by community donations and grants. With 24/7 staffing, utilities, food, and supplies, it is one of the most resource-intensive services we offer—and one of the most life-changing.

You can support this program by:

  • Sponsoring a resident’s stay
  • Donating to cover housing or utility costs
  • Giving welcome kits with items like toiletries, linens, and journals
  • Shopping our Amazon Wishlist for specific needs

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to some of our most common questions.

For more information please call 401-454-7422

  • Is this a shelter?

    No. This is transitional housing, offering longer-term, structured support—not emergency overnight shelter.

  • How long can someone stay?

    The average stay is 3–6 months, depending on the individual’s needs and readiness for independent housing.

  • Why is this program focused on women?

    Women leaving prison face unique reentry challenges—especially when they lack safe housing, family support, or employment history. Without services like this, they are at serious risk of returning to incarceration. This program fills a critical gap.

  • What services do residents access?

    In addition to 24/7 housing support, residents use Better Lives RI programs like our [Food Pantry], [Community Meal], [Homeless Outreach], and [Day Center].

Learn More or Get Involved

If you’re searching for transitional housing for ex-offenders, reentry housing for women in Providence, or want to support a recidivism reduction program in Rhode Island, this is your opportunity to act.

Let’s build a future where every woman leaving incarceration has a place to call home—and a chance to move forward.

Have Questions About Providence Food Pantry Hours or Eligibility?

Call us at 401-454-7422 or stop by during open hours. We're proud to serve our neighbors across 02903 and the greater Providence community.