Community Information

Federal Funding and Policy Update (March 24, 2025)

On Friday, March 21, 2025, our legal services contract for unaccompanied children was abruptly terminated without prior notice. We are still seeking clarity on whether this termination applies retroactively.

Despite the federal government’s decision to end our contract supporting unaccompanied youth—many of whom have endured unimaginable hardships to seek safety and stability in the U.S.—we refuse to turn our backs on them. Our commitment to these young people remains unwavering.

In February, the Refugee Resettlement and Placement (R&P) program was discontinued, thus dismantling a 45-year-old public-private partnership that has helped millions of refugees rebuild their lives in America. This support ensures newly arrived refugees receive essential assistance during their first 90 days in the United States.

While the government may be turning its back on those seeking safety and a fresh start, we will not. Our services, including immigration legal services, education, case management, and job training, are provided beyond the first 90 days, and have led to nearly 100% of resettled refugees becoming self-sustaining within less than 240 days or 8 months of their arrival.

In total, including additional funding cuts, Dorcas International’s budget has been reduced by approximately $1.9 million.

Rhode Island has always been a place of welcome. In fact, 15% of Rhode Islanders are immigrants. They are our neighbors, co-workers, and classmates. They are entrepreneurs, caregivers, and students working to build better lives. But now, many are facing impossible challenges—without the support they desperately need. 

For over a century, we have stood beside Rhode Island’s immigrants and refugees—serving more than 6,000 individuals this past year alone. We refuse to stop now. Our clients still need help immigration legal services, English language learning, navigating the healthcare system, determining eligibility for benefits, and connecting with vital community resources.

Post-Inauguration Message from Executive Director, Kathy Cloutier (January 1, 2025)

Now that the inauguration has taken place and the new administration is getting to work, we turn to our community to remain united in our mission to build an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. 

One in every seven people in Rhode Island is an immigrant, coming from diverse corners of the globe. We encourage you to reach out to the immigrants in your community—whether they’re neighbors, colleagues, or parents of your children’s friends—and show them they are welcome. 

We ask for your continued support as we stay resolute and ready to adapt with resilience and agility, just as we have for more than 100 years. Our commitment to fostering a welcoming community through resettlement, legal assistance, education, and service remains unwavering.

We can’t do it without you.

In response to the new administration's proposed policies—closed borders, mass deportations, and budget cuts—more immigrants than ever are turning to us for help in securing their right to remain in Rhode Island. Together, we can provide the essential resources and support they need to not only stay but to thrive here for the next four years and beyond.

In addition to immigration legal services, we offer a range of vital programs, including English language classes, job training, assistance with securing sustainable employment, and support for basic needs.

Our vision remains a future where everyone is welcome and has the opportunity to thrive and prosper. We invite you to stand with us in making that vision a reality. We are stronger together.

There are many ways to get involved

As we face an imminent decrease in funding and resources, we are turning to our compassionate and dedicated community for support. Immigrants and refugees who have entrusted us with their hopes for a better life will need continued assistance. These individuals, who often arrive with nothing but courage and determination, rely on our programs to help them navigate the challenges of starting over in a new country. Without the vital support we provide, many would struggle to access the basic services they need to thrive.

Now more than ever, we need to unify to ensure that those we serve can continue to rely upon us for the essential support they need to build new lives, achieve their dreams, and contribute to the vibrant diversity of our society. Our country is at a critical point where we must stand up for those who cannot defend themselves. We can’t do it without you — your involvement makes all the difference in our mission to provide dignity, hope, and security to those who need us most.

Connect & Stay Informed

• Now more than ever, we need our community to stay informed! As things evolve be sure to revisit this page to learn what's happening within our agency and community
• Sign up for our newsletter: Visit our home page, https://www.diiri.org/ and scroll down to the right corner of the footer at the bottom of the home page
• Follow us on social media. Links to our pages are at the bottom of every page on this website!
• Attend an upcoming Community Conversation 

Host a Donation Drive to support current items listed needed below:

• Winter coats
• Backpacks with school supplies
• New undergarments & socks for men and women

Volunteer

• Adult Education Classroom Aide Volunteers (urgent need!)
• Clothing Collaborative Volunteers

Post-Election Message from Executive Director, Kathy Cloutier (11-6-2024)

Dorcas International stands ready to adapt and respond with resilience and agility as we have for the past 104 years. We remain steadfast in our mission to foster a welcoming community through resettlement, legal assistance, education, and service.

Our vision is a future where everyone is welcome and has the opportunity to thrive and prosper.

Key Considerations Moving Forward

Federal Policy Changes

• Anticipated Adjustments: Expected changes to immigration and refugee policies in both the short and long term.
  Potential Impacts: Policy shifts may lead to a reduced number of refugees, unaccompanied youth, and other migrants arriving in the U.S.

Federal & State Budget Cuts

• Current Budget Constraints: We are experiencing the impact of decreased one-time federal funds (e.g., COVID-19 stimulus, Afghan & Ukrainian support).
• Pending Budget Decisions: Congress has only approved a temporary budget through December 20th, with a full-year budget pending until September 30th. This could impact our agency’s funding for the year.