RIAC began its resettlement program in 2001. More than 200 refugees from different countries including Bhutan, Iraq, Congo, Syria, Afghanistan, Burma, Somalia, and Ethiopia are resettled annually by RIAC in greater Boston and Worcester. RIAC’s resettlement is done through its affiliation with Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC). ECDC is one of nine national agencies authorized by the Department of State to resettle refugees in the United States.
RIAC’s Commitments
Greet arriving refugees at the airport
Locate housing
Provide basic furnishings
Assist in enrolling children in school
Provide cultural orientation
Refer clients for health screenings
Assist with accessing benefits
Enroll adults in English courses and employment programs
RIAC continues to offer post-resettlement services to our clients long after these first steps have been taken.
RIAC also provides asylum seekers benefits.