Canopy NWA is urgently seeking host families in Northwest Arkansas to help newly arrived refugees settle into their new communities this spring. The organization expects to resettle more than 200 individuals in the coming months and says the need for temporary housing support is critical.
Host families provide a spare room or guest house for two to eight weeks while Canopy’s team helps refugees secure permanent housing, enroll children in school, and begin employment. Hosts don’t need to speak another language — Canopy provides interpreters and cultural orientation for both parties.
“Hosting a refugee family is one of the most tangible ways to welcome someone to NWA,” said Canopy NWA leadership. “Our hosts tell us it changes their own perspective as much as it helps the family they’re welcoming.”
Canopy NWA has resettled refugees from more than 30 countries, including families from Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Syria, and Myanmar. The organization also runs English language classes, employment programs, and after-school enrichment for refugee youth in Fayetteville and Springdale.
Interested families can fill out a host inquiry form at canopynwa.org. Financial donations and household item contributions are also welcomed — check the website for the current needs list.
