City of Refuge

City of Refuge is hosting a back to school event for refugee children in preschool or elementary school next Monday in Columbia! Garrett Rucinski, director of engagement, tells us this event will provide school supplies, backpacks, as well as information about school bus routes, parent-teacher conferences, and other important processes that can be overwhelming for refugee families new to the American education system. August 4, 2025

Federal funding cuts have reshaped refugee resettlement in Mid-Missouri. One local organization is now taking on more responsibilities with fewer resources.

City of Refuge engagement director Garrett Rucinski says that anywhere between 8,000-10,000 refugees are living in mid-Missouri right now. His job, and the job of his organization, is to - in the broadest sense - make them feel welcome here. April 18, 2024