Family Service of Rhode Island’s Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) is a 24/7, no-cost crisis response program for children and youth ages 2 to 21. 

Whether it’s a child in emotional distress, a teen experiencing a mental health crisis, or a family struggling to manage intense behaviors—MRSS sends trained clinicians directly to the home, school, or community within about an hour.

We help stabilize the situation, support the family, and connect youth to longer-term care.

  Free to all Rhode Island families
No referral or insurance required
Available day or night, all year long

Call Crisis Support Line: (401) 854-6678
Learn more: https://www.familyserviceri.org/programs/crisis-response-services/

Why Recognition Matters

For LGBTQIA+ individuals, being recognized—by their families, schools, workplaces, and communities—can be transformative. Affirmation of gender identity and sexual orientation is linked to lower rates of depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicide. Yet too often, LGBTQIA+ people face discrimination, marginalization, and systemic barriers to care, housing, and employment.

Recognition goes beyond mere tolerance. It means seeing LGBTQIA+ people as full and equal members of society, with unique experiences and contributions. It means creating space for their voices, respecting their pronouns and identities, and ensuring inclusive access to services and support.

The Impact on Individuals

When someone is misgendered or told their identity doesn’t matter, it chips away at their sense of self-worth and belonging. For youth in particular, being told—directly or indirectly—that their identity is “wrong” can lead to lasting trauma. On the other hand, when we affirm LGBTQIA+ identities, we tell people they are worthy of love, respect, and care. That simple affirmation can change a life—and sometimes save it.

Our Commitment

At FSRI, we believe that true equity means meeting people where they are and recognizing the diverse identities that shape their lived experience. That includes race, ethnicity, ability, and it most certainly includes sexual orientation and gender identity.

Whether we are providing trauma-informed mental health care, supporting families in crisis, or advocating for systemic change, we are committed to creating safe, affirming spaces for LGBTQIA+ clients, staff, and community members.

We know that advancing equity means more than words—it requires action. That’s why we invest in culturally responsive care, ongoing staff training, and partnerships with LGBTQIA+ organizations and advocates. We are proud to walk alongside those working to ensure every person, regardless of their identity, has the opportunity to live with dignity, access resources, and find hope.

We are also proud to be a sponsor of Rhode Island Pride and excited to join the community at this year’s PrideFest on June 21. Events like PrideFest celebrate visibility, joy, and solidarity—values that reflect our commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable Rhode Island for all. See you there!

Steve dedicated his life to service, enriching countless lives through his work in government, human services, faith communities, the arts, and local organizations. Since 1996, he was a steadfast and compassionate member of Family Service of Rhode Island, where his unwavering dedication and kindness left a lasting mark on those he served. His leadership extended beyond FSRI—he was a Past President of the Providence Rotary, championing charitable causes, and a devoted volunteer for churches, political efforts, arts initiatives, and community groups. 

His love for the arts was profound. From the mid-90s to early 2000s, he played a key role in founding The Narrows, now a thriving arts and music venue in Fall River. He shared his passion for history through the Providence Tour Company, guiding walking tours that brought the city’s past to life. 

Steve was a gifted songwriter, performer, and actor, lighting up local stages and lending his talents to charitable performances, including for FSRI. His love of music was legendary, and he could talk endlessly about his favorite bands—especially The Kinks. Most recently, he acted in the independent film Article 92, which will be released soon. 

In his early years, Steve was known as “Steve Valentine” on the airwaves, working as a DJ across multiple radio stations. That he left us on Valentine’s Day feels fitting—a poignant reminder of the love, joy, and generosity he brought into the world. 

Above all, Steve cherished his family. He is survived by his sons Stephen and JJ, his daughter-in-law Stacy, his beloved grandson Noah, his loving partner Laura, and his brothers Richard and his wife Kim, and Christopher and his wife Tanya. He also leaves behind a community of dear friends and colleagues who were fortunate to know him.

Steve’s presence at FSRI—and in the many communities he touched—was immeasurable. He will be deeply missed. We hold close the memories of a remarkable man whose impact will continue to resonate. 

Our hearts are with all who loved him. 

Sarnya’s background has strongly influenced her commitment to equity and inclusion. Sarnya immigrated to the U.S. in 2014 from India, where she left behind a successful career in software engineering to pursue the field of social work, with a specific focus on justice and advocacy for women and children. This career switch enabled Sarnya to not only speak out against injustices against women and children, but to do the work, day in and day out, to empower vulnerable populations.

Sarnya has demonstrated strong leadership in promoting DEIB initiatives both at FSRI and in the community.

In her role at FSRI, Sarnya has demonstrated expertise in providing evidence-based care to children and families impacted by trauma with a DEIB lens.  In her current role as Project Director, Sarnya leads the RIDE Trauma-Informed Schools Partnership, where she has been pivotal in integrating comprehensive mental health practices into educational frameworks. Last year, Sarnya had trained over 1000 RI school staff on providing trauma-informed support for students, and has highlighted the historical trauma minority communities have endured in these trainings. Sarnya collects demographic data of each school district before she provides a training, and fine tunes the training to help staff learn how they can best support students who come from varying backgrounds. Many schools have expressed having a shift in mindset and starting to utilize a trauma-informed lens with their students after Sarnya’s trainings. Sarnya is currently also working on getting CCBHC school-based services up and running for Providence School District and has been successful in starting with 2 Providence schools so far.

Additionally, Sarnya developed and currently leads the Peer Connect initiative at FSRI intended to foster a sense of community and support among staff. She has taken this initiative to the next level by planning and hosting two meaningful events for FSRI team members – the Throwball tournament and the recent committee potluck – both of which were an opportunity to highlight staff culture and experience. Sarnya also participates as an active member of three FSRI committees – the Equity & Justice Committee, the Employee Engagement Committee, and the Policy and Advocacy Committee.  Sarnya goes beyond advocacy to action, creating an inclusive and supportive culture for FSRI staff.

Sarnya has a long and impressive list of achievements and awards related to DEIB for her contributions to the community:

• Selected to participate in the Rhode Island Foundation’s 2023/2024 Equity Leadership Initiative with other leaders across the state;
• Recognized by Providence Business News as one of RI’s and Southeastern MA’s top “40 under Forty” for her professional achievements and active involvement/contributions to communities;
• Honored by the Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England with their “Leading Women of Distinction” award;
• Featured in the Faces of Woonsocket art exhibit for sharing her migration story;
• Received an “Outstanding Community Leadership” recognition and a “Resilience Honoree” citation from Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos; and
• Received a “Social Justice and Equity Leader” citation from RI senators for her contribution to community organizations.

Additionally, Sarnya is a current member of Women’s Policy Institute Leadership program at Women’s Fund of Rhode Island, where she is going to advocate for a bill that will increase the number of social workers in RI schools. Sarnya is also a Board Member at The Economic Progress Institute and the Rhode Island Coalition against Domestic Violence.

We are honored to have Sarnya as part of FSRI family, and present this well-deserved award to her.

October marks LGBTQ History Month, a time to reflect on the contributions, challenges, and triumphs of LGBTQ individuals throughout history. It’s an opportunity to recognize the courageous trailblazers who have fought for equality, visibility, and inclusion, and to celebrate the progress that has been made toward a more just and equitable society.

LGBTQ History Month allows us to honor the achievements of individuals who have not only shaped the world in fields such as culture, politics, science, and the arts, but have also championed human rights and equality for all. From the bravery of activists during the Stonewall Riots to the modern legal victories that have advanced LGBTQ rights, this month serves as a reminder that the journey for equality is ongoing—and it is one that involves us all.

At Family Service of Rhode Island, we are committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment where all people are respected, valued, and empowered. In alignment with this commitment, we are proud to announce that we have achieved Safe Zone Certification through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island. This certification reflects our dedication to creating an affirming and supportive space for LGBTQ clients, staff, and community members.

Safe Zone Certifications

Safe Zone Certification demonstrates that our team has completed specialized training to enhance our understanding of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals. It also ensures that we are providing services that are culturally competent and inclusive of all identities, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or background.

As we celebrate LGBTQ History Month and embrace the importance of equality and inclusion, Family Service of Rhode Island remains committed to serving our community with compassion and care. Our Safe Zone Certification is one step in our continued efforts to ensure that our workplace and services provide a safe and affirming environment for all.

Let’s use this month to educate ourselves, honor those who have fought for LGBTQ rights, and continue advocating for a brighter, more inclusive future.

If you are interested in learning more about the Safe Zone certification through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island, visit: https://www.bcbsri.com/safezones

Official Safe Zone Press Release: https://www.bcbsri.com/newsroom/press-releases/bcbsri-certifies-22-new-sites-lgbtq-safe-zones-bringing-total-more-130

The CCBHC model represents a national standard for delivering high-quality, coordinated behavioral health care. This model is designed to address the critical needs of individuals facing mental health challenges and substance use disorders, ensuring they receive the support and services they deserve.

The Importance of Access to Behavioral Health Services

Access to substance use and behavioral health services is more important now than ever. Many individuals and families struggle with mental health issues and substance use disorders, often feeling isolated and without the necessary resources to seek help. The CCBHC model helps bridge this gap by offering a comprehensive range of services, including:

• Outpatient Mental Health Services
• Substance Use Treatment
• Home and Community-Based Services
• Crisis Services
• Primary Care Coordination
• Community Education and Support

By integrating these services, we can provide holistic care that not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters long-term recovery and wellness. This approach has been shown to improve community health outcomes, reduce health disparities, and support providers in delivering higher quality, more sustainable services.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity

“The certification as a CCBHC is more than just a designation; it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make generational change to the behavioral health system in our state. It allows us to expand our reach, improve the quality of care, and ultimately enhance the lives of the individuals and families we serve. Our commitment to healthy families and strong communities drives everything we do.” Said Margaret Holland McDuff, CEO of Family Service of Rhode Island.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward in our journey as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic, we remain dedicated to creating a healthier community for all. We invite you to join us in this mission, whether by seeking help for yourself or a loved one, advocating for mental health awareness, or supporting our programs and initiatives. Together, we can build a future where everyone has access to the behavioral health services they need to thrive. Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing more updates on our progress in the coming months.

If you are passionate about social work, healthcare, administration, or community outreach, we have opportunities waiting for you! Find our available positions online at www.familyserviceri.org/careers

Find Help

For more information about our services or to find help, click here or call (401) 519-2280. Your wellness is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Family Service of Rhode Island Is your partner in Health, Hope, Healing, and Home.

24/7 Crisis Support Line Available –

If you are having suicidal thoughts, experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, or are witnessing someone in crisis, please call 988 or (401) 854-6678.

Life Threatening & Medical Emergencies –

For a health emergency, like severe chest pain, trouble breathing, seizures, or a head injury, call 911 or go to the emergency room right away. You should also call 911 if you or someone you care about are in immediate danger or threatening to hurt themselves.

Each year, millions of Americans are victims of crime. They could be your coworkers, teammates, neighbors, or family members. What would you do if they came to you for help? ​

April 21-27 is National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, a time to raise awareness of options, services, and hope for crime survivors. Many victims need ongoing care, support, and resources. Above all, they need someone to listen. Taking the time to familiarize yourself, your place of work, or your social circle with ways to help survivors could make a difference when someone turns to you for help. ​

This National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, join us in being there for survivors and letting them know that help is available. Click here, to download the Rhode Island Victim Service Guide to learn about resources in Rhode Island for victims and survivors of crime.
https://fsri.box.com/s/shcwynhtyky1r7mijvbb3qb0jmpjfq9x ​

Commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week with Family Service of Rhode Island on Wednesday, April 24th from 12:30-1:30 pm at Memorial Park in Providence.

View event details: https://www.familyserviceri.org/event/2024-victims-grove-ceremony/

Are you ready to make an impact? On April 1st, join Family Service of Rhode Island (FSRI) as we participate in 401 Gives Day, a day dedicated to giving back and supporting the vital work of nonprofits across Rhode Island. Here’s how YOU can be a game-changer:

• Donate: Your donation, no matter the size, can make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve. Visit our dedicated 401 Gives Day donation page to contribute and help us continue providing essential services to our community.
• Spread the Word: Sharing is caring! Spread the word about FSRI’s mission with your friends, family, and colleagues. Encourage them to join you in supporting FSRI on 401 Gives Day. Together, we can amplify our impact and reach even more people in need.
• Connect with Us: Stay connected with FSRI by following us on social media. Get updates, hear success stories, and catch a glimpse into the meaningful work your support makes possible. Your engagement and support are invaluable to us.

With your support, we can make a real difference on April 1st and beyond. Let’s come together as a community to create positive change and uplift those who need it most. Thank you for being a part of our mission to build a brighter future for Rhode Islanders. Together, we can achieve great things!

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for April 1st and join us in making 401 Gives Day a success. Together, we can make a lasting impact!

Donate using 401Gives

https://www.givegab.com/nonprofits/family-service-of-rhode-island

A little-known but vitally important program could end this summer if the Rhode Island General Assembly doesn’t act.

The First Connections program, administered by the Department of Health, is Rhode Island’s emergency response and triage team for families with young children, as well as the federally required child find entity for Early Intervention services. The program provides free, voluntary home visiting services for approximately 3,000 families a year and costs the state only $1 million a year.

Families are referred to First Connections in a number of ways: the state’s birthing hospitals send referrals for families they have identified who may need extra support; the Department of Children, Youth & Families refers every family, and foster family, who has a child in their care under age 3, for supports and screenings; pediatricians make referrals to have First Connections connect their patients with resources and to find children who have not returned for medical care; and parents themselves who reach out to the Department of Health for help are directly referred. First Connections casts the widest net of any program for our youngest children at most risk. According to data presented at last month’s Children’s Cabinet, one in four (25 percent) of children under age 2 are enrolled in First Connections, more than any other program, except Medicaid.

Once referred, nurses, social workers, and community health workers visit families in their homes to ensure that babies are safe and that parents have the skills, resources, and connections they need so their children can thrive.

First Connections staff are tasked not only with child medical assessments and connecting families with a medical home, but they also conduct home safety checks, screen for social determinants of health, domestic violence, substance use, screening for depression and anxiety, as well as other behavioral health needs. Staff also perform developmental screenings for children in the home and are the gateway to connect families with longer term programs such as Early Intervention services, long-term home visiting, Head Start, and child outreach. Data has shown that families who engage with long-term program supports are less likely to have future DCYF involvement. The First Connections program also assists families with obtaining resources for food insecurity, diapers and clothing, job training, and housing instability.

First Connections is funded through Medicaid and the Department of Health and has not had a permanent rate increase in 23 years. For the last two years, the state has used American Rescue Plan Act funds to provide a temporary rate increase which allowed us providers to continue to offer the services to families this year. However, Governor McKee’s fiscal year 2025 budget proposal to implement only a third of the rate review amount recommended by the Office of Health Insurance Commissioner starting on Oct. 1 will mean that the reimbursement rates for this program will be cut by 70 percent on July 1. None of our four nonprofit agencies that administer these services can continue these vital services with such a low reimbursement.

This program not only saves lives, but it saves Rhode Island money: 100 percent of families who get a home visit learn about safe sleep and other lifesaving measures. The program reduces emergency room visits by reducing the likelihood of harm and increasing the likelihood of regular well-child visits and immunizations. And the program leads to less longer-term involvement with DCYF.

The state needs this program to meet its federal requirements and to serve the families it is required to serve. We need Rhode Island to continue the current reimbursement rates for First Connections, and not go back to the rates of 23 years ago. Legislation introduced by Representative Joshua J. Giraldo and Senator Bridget Valverde will keep the much-needed rates. First Connections saves lives; please save First Connections.

David Caprio is president and chief executive officer of Children’s Friend; Jennifer Fairbank is the chief executive officer of Visiting Nurses Home and Hospice; Benedict Lessing is the chief executive officer at Community Care Alliance; and Margaret Holland McDuff is the chief executive officer of Family Service of Rhode Island.