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Director of R.I. Department of Human Services Signs Agreement with Federal Government to Improve and Enhance State Language Assistance

Providence, R.I. – Steven Costantino, Secretary-designate of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (OHHS), announced today that Acting Director of the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (RIDHS) Sandra Powell signed an agreement with the federal government to improve and enhance the Department’s language assistance programs. The voluntary agreement, forged between the RIDHS and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Civil Rights (Region 1), is aimed at ensuring adequate language assistance for individuals with limited English proficiency who rely on the services of the RIDHS.

“RIDHS has been proactive in making improvements in training, translation assistance, and the availability of services for those receiving and applying for benefits through the Department,” Costantino said. “Significant strides have been made in terms of language assistance training for staff, updating written materials and notices, identifying language assistance resources, and reviewing policies and strategies to ensure the continued improvement of service delivery.”

“Those who rely on the Department’s services are among the most vulnerable Rhode Islanders,” Powell said. “Access must be a top priority. This agreement is an important step.”

In signing the voluntary agreement, RIDHS is renewing its commitment to work with the federal government to continue to provide meaningful access to all of its programs for those who are currently eligible and for those individuals who apply for benefits.

The Rhode Island Department of Human Services works hand-in-hand with other resources in Rhode Island to offer a full continuum of services for families, adults, children, elders, individuals with disabilities and veterans. Its goals are as follows:

-Families are strong, productive, healthy and independent

-Adults are healthy and reach their maximum potential

-Children are safe, healthy, ready to learn and reach their full potential

-Elders and individuals with disabilities receive a full continuum of services to enhance their quality of life

-Veterans are cared for and honored

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