#SaveRIAC campaign keeps refugee, immigrant council open
Organization hopes to rehire laid off employees
An advisory council that has helped thousands of refugees and immigrants coming to Newfoundland and Labrador start new lives has been given a reprieve after nearing the brink of closure.
The Refugee and Immigrant Advisory Council feared it would have to shut its doors and was forced to lay off staff.
The council has relied on donations and the efforts of volunteers ever since it started more than 30 years ago. However, the current economic climate led to fewer donations.
A fundraising campaign called #SaveRIAC, which began in March, generated $8,510.75 in cash and a pledge of $14,124.96.
The donations will allow the organization to stay open in a reduced capacity, the council said in a news release, adding that volunteers will continue to offer what services they can.
"We are optimistic about the possibility to bring back our staff, who were laid off by mid-March," said executive director Jose Rivera.
"During the campaign you, the community, came together and showed in a strong way how committed you are to RIAC's cause on helping those newcomers that fall through the cracks of the system."
While the doors remain open for now, RIAC will still need continuous donations to continue offering services.
The council's annual budget is more than $95,000.