PROVIDENCE – Gov. Gina M. Raimondo announced Monday that she and a coalition of individuals and organizations have secured over $170,000 in commitments from donors to cover fees for Rhode Islanders eligible to renew their status as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients.
Each application is a $495 fee. The final day to apply before the program begins its planned discontinuation is Oct. 5.
“A couple of weeks ago, when the Trump administration announced its plan to end the DACA program, we gathered in Central Falls and pledged to do everything in our power to stand up for Rhode Island’s DREAMers,” Raimondo said. “We’re not going to allow $495 to stand in the way of our neighbors’ dreams. Now is the time to fight for our values and take action against hatred and bigotry.”
The release noted that more than 1,200 DACA recipients live in the state of Rhode Island.
Raimondo also joined with a coalition of Rhode Island advocacy organizations Monday to announce a joint effort to help DACA recipients affected by President Donald Trump’s repeal of the DACA executive order by coordinating outreach and services including pro-bono legal representation and assistance filing DACA renewal applications.
The advocacy coalition includes the Rhode Island Center for Justice, the Immigration Clinic at the Roger Williams University School of Law, the Pro Bono Collaborative at the Roger Williams University School of Law, Progreso Latino, Dorcas International Institute and the Coalition of Advocates for Student Opportunities.
“It is critically important to get the word out to Rhode Island Dreamers and other immigrants that help is available. We want immigrants to know they are not alone,” said CASO Chairwoman Marta V. Martinez.
