As we near the end of 2025, the resettlement landscape looks markedly different than it did a year ago. In January, we reported on a swift series of federal actions, beginning with the Executive Order, Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program, which suspended the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). As a result of these actions, thousands of refugees who had completed security screenings and were booked for travel to the U.S. had their flights cancelled. 

The outlook for the 2026 resettlement landscape remains uncertain, particularly after the Presidential Determination (PD) set the annual refugee admission ceiling at 7,500, a historic low, with slots focused mainly on Afrikaners. Resettlement agencies across the state have a cumulative capacity of 250 arrivals for 2026 which is low in historic terms. 

H.R.1 Implementations and Clarifications: 

On December 9, 2025, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) clarified that refugees and others will not receive federal food assistance until they have adjusted their status to lawful permanent resident (LPR) with a green card. The USDA further clarified that once status is adjusted, refugees will not be subject to a five-year waiting period. The Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) will issue further guidance on the implementation of H.R.1 and these clarifications.    

More regional news: 

• 'A message of hope': Inside Carthage, Missouri's Way of Salvation Christmas light show
• Refugee students celebrate holidays at Union Station
• Volunteer and donation events in Kansas City for the holiday season 

To read: Welcoming America recently shared a story on how Detroit neighbors rallied together to reclaim a vacant lot, turning it into a safe and welcoming space for all. Bangladeshi, Yemeni and Black residents come together to host celebrations, set inclusive meeting practices and clean-ups to build trust across differences.

To clarify: The International Refugee Assistance Project has put together an explainer on how new policies are impacting refugees, asylum seekers, Afghan nationals and immigrants from countries listed in the travel ban.

To listen: This video from Jewish Vocational Service in Kansas City shows the story of two sisters, Huda and Hadil, who were resettled with JVS after fleeing the Syrian Civil War in 2016. Arriving when they were teenagers, Huda, Halil and their family were supported by JVS while navigating a completely new place. Now, in their twenties, both are in college and working.

To foster welcoming: Welcome.US has developed a guide for people on how to hold meaningful conversations with newcomers in a way that grows inclusion and belonging. This blog post offers practical tips and demonstrates how small gestures can remind newcomers they are not alone as they navigate a new environment.

Hosted by members of the St. Louis Afghan Community and in partnership with the American Red Cross, IISTL will be holding a blood drive on Friday, December 26. This blood drive is a chance to gather in community and give back this season. Appointments are required and can be made by calling 1-800-REDCROSS or by visiting RedCrossBlood.org and entering in the code

International Institute.

IISTL is hosting a Winter Coat Drive from now through January. New or gently used coats are welcome. You can drop them off at the front desk at 3401 Arsenal St., St. Louis, MO. 

IISTL is also looking for volunteers for their After School Program! If you are interested in becoming an After School Program tutor, please visit here or reach out to baldeckc@iistl.org.

Kindness Begins with Me is looking for volunteer drivers, teachers, teaching assistants, women's group and driving tutors. If this sounds of interest, please visit here or email toni.zychinsky@kindmestl.org.

Jewish Vocational Service is always welcoming volunteers! Whether you are looking for a one-time opportunity for yourself or group or you are looking to be involved with JVS more frequently, JVS has an opportunity for you. Email volunteer@jvskc.org for more information.

Welcome Neighbor STL is looking for volunteers to support their Supper Club Dinner events. You can also volunteer as an ESL tutor to help Supper Club chefs write and share their story.   Learn more by visiting their website.

RAISE has ongoing volunteer opportunities available! You can sign up to help with childcare, provide quick rides for clients, support them with administrative tasks, or become a mentor to refugee youth. 

Micah Project has several ongoing volunteer opportunities available to get involved in your community! This includes Music Support with The Hive Social Inclusion in South Brisbane, Childcare with Young Mothers for Young Women in Coorparoo, and Community Gardening with The Hive in West End. Flexible roles are also open for Art Volunteers, supporting exhibitions with around 10–12 hours per month. Learn more by visiting their website.

Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for more updates!

A Missouri that values and champions refugees

Catch up on what you may have missed in our previous newsletters here :)