Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse today announced that more than $20.2 million is heading to Rhode Island to support a total of 36 local projects that will help strengthen community-based programs and create jobs for Rhode Islanders. Whitehouse voted Saturday to pass a package of six fiscal year 2024 appropriations bills, sending it to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. Earlier this month, Whitehouse announced that he secured $59.2 million in a first round of earmarks that will support 38 projects, bringing the total investment in Rhode Island to $79.4 million for this year.
“I am pleased to secure an additional $20 million in federal investments for the Ocean State, on top of the nearly $60 million we announced earlier this month,” said Whitehouse. “This funding will be a big boost for community-based programs, strengthen job training programs, and create opportunities for Rhode Islanders.”
A full list of Whitehouse-backed investments is available here. Some highlights include:
- $273,000 for Day One to support facilities upgrades for survivors of sexual assault
Each year, Day One serves nearly 7,500 Rhode Islanders who have experienced sexual assault and trauma. This federal funding will support much-needed improvements to the Day One facility to improve services for survivors.
“Thank you, Senator Whitehouse, for including Day One in your Congressionally Directed Spending request. Day One is grateful for your unwavering support of and advocacy for victims of sexual violence. These funds will advance our mission and the essential services we provide to Rhode Islanders in crisis,”said Peg Langhammer, Executive Director of Day One. “These vital funds will support significant enhancements to our facility, enabling us to better serve the Rhode Island community and amplify our impact in providing the best of care to survivors statewide.”
- $150,000 for Tides Family Services to expand mental and behavioral health supportive services
Tides Family Services has been a leader in meeting the needs of at-risk youth across the Ocean State. This earmark will allow Tides to implement community-based programming aimed at promoting resilience among pre-teens.
“Investments in community-based programs are a long term investment in the potential of young lives and a testament to the transformative impact of fostering a supportive and empowering environment for children to work towards resilience,” said Beth Bixby, CEO of Tides Family Services. “We’re thankful for the support from Senator Whitehouse and his team. We look forward to continue working together to make these resources more accessible and sustainable.”
- $250,000 for the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association to implement specialized workforce training program
As the manufacturing industry evolves, there is an increased need to train new employees to meet the specialized demands of the industry. This investment will help the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association deliver customized workforce programming designed to meet employers’ needs.
“With many of our employees nearing retirement, this grant will help companies retain experienced individuals to train their future replacement and grab as much intellectual knowledge as possible,” said Dave Chenevert, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association. “Senator Whitehouse has been a strong supporter of the manufacturing sector.”
