Refugee Immigration Ministry is an interfaith, community-based organization that was founded in 1986. RIM’s programs serve asylum seekers, asylees and refugees. At the heart of RIM’s major programs is a corps of dedicated volunteers who bring clients into relationships with their communities.

St. Peter’s is one of many parishes that comprise the North Shore/Amesbury Cluster. The Cluster provides assistance to newly arrived refugees and asylum seekers. Volunteers help furnish apartments, drive clients to appointments, show them how to use public transportation, and generally show them hospitality in their new home. Clusters also raise money to support clients through a variety of events and activities.  Fundraising is a critical part of this ministry.  Asylum seekers receive no government support while their case in pending and are not permitted to work to support themselves for a period of time.  Also, government support for refugees is limited and often does not cover the cost of living in Massachusetts.

The North Shore Cluster is currently comprised of Episcopalian, Catholic, Congregational, Friends, Unitarians and Methodists. The clients we serve come from all over the world including Iraq, Somalia, Eritrea, Uganda, Rawanda, and Afganistan.

If you are interested in assisting, please contact Carrie Monahan.  You may also visit www.r-i-m.net