Students from the Refugee Outreach Club (ROC) raised money through a dress-down day this past Friday.

“We strive to raise awareness, provide practical assistance, and foster understanding, empathy, and inclusion– empowering refugees within our community,” said ROC leader and senior Lillian Ehlers, who worked for months to organize the fundraiser.

The proceeds of the fundraiser are going to the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) Vermont to support families who rely on SNAP benefits, which currently with the government shutdown, have been cut by 50%. 

Rice students are doing all they can to broaden their support during this time of burden and uncertainty. However, the Refugee Outreach Club has always been a pillar for activism. Beginning in 2017, the ROC has cultivated the goal of raising money, awareness and providing goods and services for the local refugee community in Vermont, according to Maddie Hammond ‘25, a recent Rice graduate who led ROC while at Rice. 

This fundraiser is one among many. Last year, the ROC raised over $600 through a bake sale for the USCRI, but in the past has done book drives and hygiene drives, providing stability for hardworking people who can use extra support.

“However, as disappointing and frustrating as these [challenges] are, we don’t shrink— we continue to grow”, said Ehlers. “Together we will continue to build bridges not walls.”

Students once again showed up, this time in their best dress-down attire and strength to combat these hardships, raising over a thousand dollars.

“We are so appreciative of everyone, students and staff, who donated,” said Ehlers. “Your seemingly small gesture could make [a big difference] in someone else’s life.”