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As we enter into April, this year has brought a number of changes to the refugee landscape. Here are some recent highlights:
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The U.S. refugee program is on track to hit its historically low admissions cap of 7,500 as early as May, before the fiscal year ends. With most available slots now going to Afrikaners, the program will assess next steps once the admissions cap is reached.
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A previously issued memo by the federal government, outlined a policy to arrest and detain already resettled refugees who have resided in the U.S. for over a year who have not yet adjusted to green card status. On March 23, 2026, a federal court in Massachusetts blocked the implementation of the arrest and detentions outlined in that February 18 USCIS memo.
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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 green card status. 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.
| | IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Missouri Agencies | |
IISMO Youth Mentoring Program Partners with Mosaic Arts Collective to Expand Creative Opportunities
As newcomer families adjust to life in the United States, many young people feel an urgency to build their future through school and finding employment. Our partner, the International Institute of Southwest Missouri (IISMO), is creating a space where the youth they serve are empowered through creative expression as part of their journey.
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RAISE Wellness Program Expands Community Connections for Refugees
At Refugee and Immigrant Services and Education (RAISE), a local resettlement provider in Joplin, community integration is central to its work. Through its programming, RAISE connects refugee clients with community members who support their well-being as they navigate through a new environment.
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A Story of Hope:
Abdel (name changed for privacy) is a client of Jewish Vocational Services (JVS) in Kansas City, MO. Arriving in the United States from Syria in 2022, Abdel worked at Panera for years, until the location closed, and he was laid off. Unsure about finding new opportunities, he sought out support from JVS. With the support of JVS and the employment team, Abdel found a new job and regained a sense of confidence in an uncertain time.
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RESOURCES: Read, Watch, Explore
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To read: Bosnian St. Louis describes how more than 60,000 Bosnian war refugees rebuilt their lives in St. Louis and transformed the city in the process. Through personal stories and vivid history, the book highlights a community defined by resilience, cultural pride and a powerful commitment to their new home.
To listen: Refugees International is launching a new podcast, “Forced from Home,” bringing together expert leaders in the field to discuss the causes and implications of global displacement.
To foster welcoming: Welcoming America’s Building Trust toolkit explains how governments and nonprofits can communicate clearly and in multiple languages so everyone can access important information and services. It shows practical ways to reach diverse communities, build trust and make sure no one is left out.
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OPPORTUNITIES: Get Involved
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The International Institute of St. Louis recently opened up vendor applications for the upcoming Festival of Nations in August! Stay up-to-date on how to get involved with the Festival of Nations here.
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Be sure to check out the job postings across the International Institute of St. Louis and the International Institute of Southwest Missouri. Follow along on the job postings here.
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Join IISTL for their 8th Race for Refugees on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Tower Grove Park in St. Louis. This race will celebrate immigrant and refugee neighbors and raise funds that go toward programs and hands-on service at IISTL.
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Jewish Vocational Service in Kansas City 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. The next volunteer session will be on April 11, 2026. Email volunteer@jvskc.org for more information.
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Jewish Vocational Services is hiring! Check out their job postings.
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Archway Refugee Connections in St. Louis (previously known as 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.
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RAISE in Joplin 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.
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Welcome Neighbor STL is looking for volunteer drivers and tutors for their various programming. To apply, please learn more here.
| | 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 :) | | | | |
