#SaveRIAC campaign keeps refugee, immigrant council open

An advisory council that has helped thousands ofrefugees andimmigrants coming toNewfoundland and Labrador start new lives hasbeen 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.

• Donation drought threatening group that helps refugees, immigrants

The council has relied on donations and the effortsof volunteers ever since it started more than 30 years ago. However, the current economic climateled to fewerdonations.

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 directorJose 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, RIACwill still need continuous donations to continue offering services.

The council's annual budget is more than $95,000.