The City of Burlington’s Office of Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (REIB) is seeking approval to provide $2,000 in taxpayer funds to the Congolese Community of Vermont to help the organization obtain insurance and expand services for immigrant families, according to the agenda for tonight’s city council meeting.

The Congolese Community of Vermont currently serves nearly 500 families, including about 150 individuals receiving additional support. Its programs focus on education, integration, transportation and youth engagement, particularly for newly arrived families adjusting to life in Vermont.

According to the city’s funding request, the organization recently appointed a new president who hopes to expand its programs and services. However, the group needs help paying for insurance to continue providing services and hosting community events.

The REIB says the grant would help the organization meet immediate needs among newly arrived families and offer events that welcome them into the Burlington community.

The proposed $2,000 grant would come from the REIB’s fiscal year 2027 program delivery budget. The sponsorship agreement would be subject to review and approval by the City Attorney’s Office.

The funding request does not specify the type of insurance needed, its total cost or how much of that cost the city grant would cover.