Rhode Island General Laws Title 40. Human Services § 40-5.2-22. Emergency expenses

(a) To the extent that the department has allocated resources for this purpose, the department is authorized to provide assistance to families receiving assistance in accordance with this chapter to meet emergency needs that cannot be met with the cash resources available to the family. The emergency assistance shall be limited to the lesser of actual cost or the sum of two hundred dollars ($200). Except as provided by the department by regulation, no expense shall be reimbursable unless the department has pre-approved the expenditure. Emergency assistance includes, but is not limited to, payment of moving expenses for families who are forced to move their place of residence and payments for emergency transportation needs used in connection with participation in any program approved under this chapter.

(b) In the event of a catastrophe caused by fire, flood, lightning, severe wind, or other act of nature, the department may establish by regulation the authorization of catastrophic assistance funds not subject to the limit of two hundred dollars ($200) specified in subsection (a). These regulations shall specify the criteria under which funds for shelter, clothing, or essential household equipment and furnishings may be authorized in the event of a catastrophe.