Senator Sean Ryan is calling for $5 million of the state's budget be allotted for refugee resettlement.

Since 2002, 16,000 refugees have moved to Buffalo, contributing to economic growth by getting jobs or even opening their own businesses.

They also buy goods and services, like houses and cars.

That's why some leaders want to see more plant roots in Western New York.

"Our region's population is aging and shrinking. We don't have enough workers to replace retiring baby boomers. We have a shortage of teachers, doctors, nurses. The foreign-born are a working age population and a proven positive economic force,” said Eva Hassett, International Institute of Buffalo executive director.

Ninety-four percent of all refugees who come to New York settle in upstate communities.