By ending the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program implemented by the Obama administration, Trump is threatening to expel nearly hundreds of thousands of young undocumented immigrants across the country.

On top of the impending threat of deportation and increased hostility directed toward immigrant populations, the young 'Dreamers' targeted by the Trump administration have the added burden of coughing up $495 to renew their two-year work and study permits under DACA. On Monday, Rhode Island's Governor Gina Raimondo announced that no Dreamers in her state will have to pay that fee.

The Providence Journal reported that governor Raimondo secured more than $170,000 from individual donors and organizations to cover applications from the state’s nearly 250 'Dreamers,' protecting these young men and women from deportation for an additional two-years. “We’re not going to allow $495 to stand in the way of our neighbors’ dreams,” Raimondo said in a press release. “Now is the time to fight for our values and take action against hate and bigotry.”  

Under newly submitted terms set by the Trump administration, 'Dreamers' whose permits expire before March 5, 2018 must apply for a final two-year renewal by Oct. 5. Prior to this provision, DACA recipients could apply for an unlimited number of renewals. Immigrant advocacy groups have been critical of the Trump administration for requiring Dreamers to come up with $495 with such limited notice.

Other locals are following Raimondo's example and raising funds to cover renewal fees. Last week, San Francisco based nonprofit, the Mission Asset Fund announced that it will provide $1 million to help about 2,000 Dreamers renew their permits with half of the funds reserved for California college students. 

It's a worthy cause and every little bit counts.