CRANSTON, RI – In an effort to support parents and families who have children with special needs, Rhode Island’s Congressional Delegation today announced a $200,000 federal grant has been awarded to the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN).  The grant will enable RIPIN to conduct workshops and trainings, support and connect families with resources, provide technical assistance, including best practice information for families in order to empower parents to improve educational and life outcomes for their children with disabilities.

The Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN), based in Cranston, is Rhode Island’s federally-designated Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC).  The federal grant, which is administered by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs, will help RIPIN to implement effective parental involvement policies, programs, and activities that lead to improvements in student academic achievement and strengthen partnerships among parents, teachers, and other school personnel in meeting the educational needs of children.

“RIPIN is an important resource that offers training and support for children with disabilities and their families.  They have a strong network with years of experience that helps parents communicate with each other about what they are going through and share successful strategies.  This federal funding will help them continue to expand their reach, help more families, and provide children with the special education services they need,” said U.S. Senator Jack Reed.

“Providing training and information to parents of children with special health care and learning needs is a real boost for many Rhode Island families,” said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse.  “I am pleased that this federal funding will help RIPIN continue this important work."

“Parents and guardians are the first and fiercest advocates for their loved ones with special needs.  The Rhode Island Parent Information Network empowers those caregivers to do what is best for their child and connects them with the resources necessary to ensure their needs are met,” said Congressman Jim Langevin.  “This grant award will allow RIPIN to further strengthen that support network and engage new families, improving the lives of even more Rhode Island children with disabilities.”

“All parents want what is best for their children and these federal funds will help parents with children who have special needs understand the opportunities available for their child’s educational development,” said Congressman David Cicilline.  “The Rhode Island Parent Information Network provides critical services to support parents with children who have special needs so they can live full lives and continue to strengthen our communities.”

Many of RIPIN's services are available to families and consumers at no cost across the state.  RIPIN was selected along with 22 other agencies nationwide to receive a state Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC) federal grant under this program.  PTI Centers provide parents with the training and information they need to work in collaboration with professionals in meeting the early intervening needs of children with disabilities as well as the preparation for life after high school.  RIPIN works closely with the Rhode Island Department of Education’s Office of Student, Community and Academic Supports, as well as many state and local agencies, organizations and school systems, to engage families in becoming equal partners in improving outcomes for students with disabilities.

 -end-