Good Afternoon {{Constituent First Name}},
October 1st marked the beginning of a new fiscal year—a moment that should have brought clarity for refugee resettlement. Instead, the White House did not issue the Presidential Determination on Refugee Admissions for Fiscal Year 2026. Without this decision, the new year began with a refugee resettlement suspension, leaving thousands of families stranded despite completing every required step to come to the United States.
Here at Canopy, we were prepared to welcome 200 refugees this year. Families are waiting in tenuous conditions. One person waiting is Sara* (Name has been changed.) a 12 year old girl separated from her mother. We remain steadfast in our commitment to keep our doors open for her, and all the other families we expected in Northwest Arkansas.
Adding to the uncertainty, the government shutdown will bring new challenges for both our clients and our organization. We know the days ahead will require extra persistence, creative problem solving, and steadfast advocacy to ensure refugee families in Northwest Arkansas are not left behind, the longer the shutdown continues.
And yet, we begin this fiscal year with joy. Yesterday, our team gathered for our annual “Fiscal New Year’s” potluck, a Canopy tradition. We shared food, laughter, and resolve. It was a reminder that even in hard seasons, we find strength in community.
That is the spirit with which we move forward: persistence, advocacy, and joy. We will continue to stand with families waiting to be reunited, and with those already here who need our support more than ever.
Joanna Krause
Executive Director |
As a grassroots organization, Canopy relies on the strength of our community to continue this work. We invite YOU to join us in the journey of welcoming and equipping our new neighbors through your generous support. To donate, click below.
Use your voice: Now is a critical time to call on our elected leaders to support the U.S refugee resettlement program and ensure it protects the most vulnerable refugees worldwide. Church World Service has created a resource page with clear steps on how you can take action and urge Congress and the Administration to set a robust refugee admissions goal.
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Chai + Chat | Oct 7 | 4:00pm- 6:00pm | |
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Join Canopy for our first Chai + Chat of the year at Ozark Natural Foods in Fayetteville on Tuesday, October 7, from 4:00–6:00 PM. Stop in for warm chai, good conversation, and the chance to connect with neighbors old and new. We’d love to see you there! |
Homegrown Festival | Saturday Oct 4 | 9:00am- 5:00pm
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Located in historic downtown Siloam Springs, the Homegrown Festival showcases locally handmade goods, curated vintage, food trucks, and live music. Vendors offer an array of original, one-of-a-kind, and limited-run items including illustration, printmaking, music, jewelry and accessories, handmade goods, salvaged and repurposed goods, and hand-picked vintage. Be sure to stop by Inspired Hand’s table! |
The International Feast and Market | Oct 4 | 11:00am- 4:00pm
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This event is all about supporting small & diverse-owned businesses while coming together as a community to celebrate the artistry and culture that enrich our lives.
What to Expect:
A feast of international cuisines! From savory bites to sweet treats!
Market stalls full of handcrafted goods, artisanal products & unique holiday gifts.
Live music & cultural performances that celebrate the diversity of our community.
Don’t forget to stop by the Inspired Hands table for delicious naan, chutney, and to learn more about Canopy’s Long Welcome! |
Canopy's International Food Tour | Nov 14 | Doors Open at 6:30
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Canopy's International Food Tour is a 5-course dinner prepared by refugee women and immigrant entrepreneurs, featuring dishes from at least five countries.
Together, we'll share food, art, and conversation all while supporting the economic empowerment of immigrant families right here in Northwest Arkansas!
Be part of the celebration! Tickets available here. |
Follow @canopynwaentrepreneurship on Instagram for more updates! |
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This week on the Canopy blog, we are honored to share a powerful reflection from our former colleague John Wilson. After decades in ministry, John unexpectedly found himself drawn into refugee resettlement, work he now calls as meaningful as pastoring. In his story, John writes about loneliness, the power of being seen, and how welcoming the stranger is at the very heart of God’s call. Don’t miss this heartfelt piece about faith, community, and the beauty of resilience.
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