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Canopy NWA: A Refuge for Refugees and a Catalyst for Community Growth

Canopy NWA provides vital resources for refugees in Northwest Arkansas including providing attainable housing.

Since its founding in 2016, Canopy NWA has been at the forefront of refugee resettlement in Northwest Arkansas, providing crucial support to individuals and families fleeing war, persecution, and violence. With more than 900 refugees from 29 countries resettled in the region, Canopy has become a vital resource for those seeking safety and a new beginning.

Operating as the only refugee resettlement agency in the area, Canopy offers services that range from securing housing to facilitating job placements and integrating refugees into the community. These efforts are grounded in a mission to uphold the dignity and worth of every individual while fostering self-sufficiency.

A Growing Community

In 2023 alone, Canopy resettled 142 individuals and families, continuing its track record of making Northwest Arkansas a diverse and inclusive home for newcomers. The organization has also supported 20 families in achieving U.S. citizenship.

Events like the annual Cultural Community Celebration have fostered a sense of unity and understanding, inviting residents to learn about the rich traditions and stories of their new neighbors.

Challenges in Housing

For many refugees, the journey to rebuilding their lives begins with stable housing—a challenge Canopy takes on with determination. The organization works closely with landlords to overcome barriers such as credit checks and income documentation, which many new arrivals cannot meet.

“Housing is one of the biggest hurdles our clients face,” said Kara Townsend, Canopy’s housing manager. “The application and approval process for rentals in Northwest Arkansas require a background check and social security number, and most of them expect three-month worth of pay stubs, which of course our clients don’t have. It takes a great deal of creative thinking and securing partnerships with landlords in the area to work around much of this.” As Northwest Arkansas experiences rapid growth, the housing crisis poses a challenge not only for refugees but for the broader community. Experts estimate that 80,000 new housing units will be needed in the next two decades to meet the region's demands. Canopy’s efforts to secure housing for refugees shine a spotlight on the broader housing shortage. By addressing these challenges head-on, the organization not only supports its clients but also contributes to the overall stability of the community.

Programs and Services

Housing Assistance: Canopy helps refugees find safe and affordable housing upon arrival. They work closely with landlords to navigate challenges like background checks and rental requirements that can be difficult for newly arrived refugees to meet.

Employment Support: Canopy assists refugees in securing jobs, helping them achieve financial independence and stability. Canopy offers career coaching, job training services, writing resumes, and help with interview preparation. Also, Canopy works with community partners to provide job fair access, mentoring and shadowing opportunities, and internship placement.

Educational Programs: Canopy facilitates school enrollments for refugee children and offers support with aftercare programs.

Case Management: Each refugee family is assigned a case manager to guide them through the resettlement process.

Circle of Welcome: A volunteer program that pairs community members with refugees, providing friendship and helping them adjust to life in the United States. Circle of welcome is an essential part of Canopy’s services. By pairing locals with refugees, integration into their new life becomes much easier.

How to Help

Community members play a crucial role in Canopy’s mission. Volunteers can assist with moving families into homes, donate household essentials through Welcome Kits, or join the Circle of Welcome program. Canopy also accepts financial contributions and regularly updates its website with specific needs. Canopy’s work highlights the transformative power of community partnerships. By helping refugees rebuild their lives, the organization not only improves individual outcomes but also strengthens Northwest Arkansas as a whole.

Written By: Olivia Palumbo