# RI.gov: Rhode Island Government


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Travel to Seek Shelter

Effective immediately, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee has granted limited access for travel for those individuals who do not currently have access to heat, electricity or require immediate life safety needs. Other non-emergency travel is still subject to the statewide traffic restriction at this time.

Those seeking shelter at warming centers, shelters or other municipal facilities that have been designated for emergency services. Below is the information available at this time:

  • Tiverton Middle School, Tiverton;
  • Gaudet Middle School , Middletown ;
  • Vets Memorial High School , Warwick ;
  • Westerly Senior Center , Westerly ;
  • South Kingstown High School , Wakefield;
  • Melrose Elementary School, Jamestown.

Shelters in additional communities are considering opening, depending on travel conditions and community need.

Many shelters in Rhode Island operate under a system developed by the American Red Cross. Shelter staffing can include any combination of municipal, social services and school employees with Red Cross volunteers.

Emergency shelters may not be able to provide adequate supplies of food, water and bedding, so individuals coming to shelters should bring the following items to support their stay:

  • Pillows, blankets, sleeping bags or air mattresses
  • Extra clothing, shoes, eyeglasses, etc.
  • Folding chairs, lawn chairs or cots
  • Personal hygiene supplies
  • Flashlights and batteries
  • Quiet games, books and favorite toys
  • Important papers
  • Prescription medications

Pets are not allowed in public shelters. Only daily living assistance animals can stay with their owner in the shelter.

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