St. Louis prepares for large influx of immigrants and calls for social engagement

ST. LOUIS – The St. Louis region will welcome the highest number of immigrants and refugees in decades this year.

The International Institute of St. Louis (IISTL) expects around 2,500 new arrivals to settle there this year.

According to local politicians, this would be the largest annual influx of immigrants and refugees since the growth of the Bosnian community in the 1990s. It would also be the third year in a row with an influx of at least 1,400 people.

Trends have prompted some urgent calls for action from community leaders. IISTL says there is a significant need for donations and volunteers to help with integration efforts.

“We are excited about the high number of immigrants we have,” said Arrey Obenson, president and CEO of IISTL, during a press conference on Tuesday. “The positive impact of our foreign-born population on the region is well documented, but our resettlement efforts require significant resources. We are calling for volunteers and monetary donations.”

According to IISTL, federal funds are insufficient to cover the cost of the influx this year, partly due to rising costs and inflation. IISTL ensures new arrivals have a place to stay by covering deposits and rent for three months.

The organizations are asking for financial contributions to cover housing, transportation and other necessities for new arrivals. The funding gap can be as high as $4,300 for an individual and around $3,500 for a family of three.

“Money is important, of course, but we couldn’t achieve our goals without the dedicated volunteers who work every day to make things happen,” Obensen said.

Last year, nearly 1,000 volunteers contributed around 11,500 hours of service to IISTL. Volunteers are needed in education, economic, youth and resettlement programs.

According to IISTL, community partnerships also aim to strengthen support networks for newcomers. Affinia Healthcare works with many foreign-born clients to provide culturally supportive healthcare services.

“We pride ourselves on taking care of everyone who comes through our doors, but the increasing
“The large number of new arrivals requires a concerted effort from the medical community,” said Dr. Kendra Holmes, president and CEO of Affinia Healthcare. “This call to action includes the healthcare community, as a health screening is an important service for new arrivals seeking a new home in St. Louis.”

Click here for more information on donation and volunteer opportunities through IISTL.