Official State of Rhode Island website

State of Rhode Island Stay Covered RI About Your Medicaid Renewal

Medicaid Renewal Client Support Program Mini-Grant Offering

EXTENDED DEADLINE: March 1, 2024 at 5 p.m.

The Executive Office of Health & Human Services (EOHHS) is launching its third iteration of the Medicaid Renewal Community Support Program. Families and children enrolled in Medicaid will get notices about renewing their coverage between December 2023 and April 2024. The program continues to offer essential support, including networking sessions and mini-grants, to aid community organizations in assisting these families through the renewal process. 

Key Dates: 

  • Project Period: January 2024 – April 30, 2024 

  • Application Deadline: Application will close on March 1, 2024 at 5 p.m.

  • Award Announcement: February 24, 2024 

Why is this important? 

  • Renewals are happening now: Since April 1st, 2023, thousands of Rhode Islanders have been renewing their Medicaid coverage. This includes many families and children who may need extra assistance, especially outside of regular business hours. 

  • Challenges exist: Many families face barriers to completing the renewal process, including lack of awareness, technology access, language difficulties, and limited availability during traditional business hours. 

  • Your organization can help: We're seeking partners like YOU to reach these families and children, provide essential support, and ensure a smooth transition, including flexible evening and weekend hours. 

What can you do with this mini-grant? 

  • Technology: Get iPads or devices to help families access the online renewal portal, help update their account information, conduct workshops on using the HealthyRhode app, and bridge the digital divide. 

  • Training: Enhance your team's expertise in Medicaid, application/renewal procedures, and navigating the state's health insurance marketplace. Become a Certified Application Counselor (CAC) through free training provided by Rhode Island Health Care Association. Please note that while the training itself is free, the mini-grant can be utilized to cover the expenses related to staff time allocated for participating in this training. For more information visit: https://rihca.org/about/about-rihca. 

  • Outreach: Spread the word about renewals in trusted community settings like homes, businesses, and events, including evening and weekend events. Offer after hours support, provide transportation, document assistance, and create culturally relevant materials in multiple languages. Extend your support beyond regular business hours to accommodate families' schedules. 

  • Language and Culture: Simplify complex health information, develop language glossaries, translate materials into other languages or dialects, and offer information to bridge communication gaps for diverse families. Share your resources with the state to help others. 

Funding and Eligibility: 

  • Up to $4,950 available per category: Agencies must submit separate applications for each category, with a maximum of $4,950 per grant. Each agency is limited to one mini-grant per category, potentially totaling $19,800 across all categories. 

  • Open to all organizations: Non-profits, community centers, faith-based groups, and others serving families and children are welcome to apply. 

Timeline and Requirements: 

  • To apply, submit the online form and budget template by March 1, 2024 at 5 p.m. 

  • Project period: January 2023 – April 2024. 

  • Reporting: Track and report the number of families and children reached monthly, including demographics, application processing status, barriers encountered, and outcomes achieved. Highlight efforts and outcomes related to after-hour support. Submit a final report, deliverables, and expense records by April 1, 2024. 

  • Meetings: Attend monthly virtual gatherings to share best practices and address challenges. 

Don't miss this chance to make a difference! Together, we can ensure Rhode Island families and children have the healthcare they deserve, whenever they need it. Review the program details and submit your proposal today! 

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