Who We Are
Building a More Welcoming Mid-Missouri
City of Refuge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Columbia, Missouri, serving and empowering refugees through relational care, education, and development.
Since 2010, we’ve had the privilege of welcoming people from more than 48 countries as they rebuild their lives in Mid-Missouri. By helping refugees become safe, stable, and thriving, our community is stronger and more vibrant.
History
2010
City of Refuge is Founded
After meeting newly arrived refugees in Columbia, Missouri, Jen Wheeler started the Safi Sana (“very clean” in Swahili) cleaning service to provide employment. As the need for a wider variety of assistance became clear, Wheeler, Lori Stoll, and other community members came together and City of Refuge was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Columbia, Missouri. The organization began by providing practical support, employment opportunities, and essential household items to refugees.
2011
Building Foundations of Support
Lori Stoll became City of Refuge’s first employee, meeting families where they lived and helping them access healthcare, employment, housing, and public benefits. These early years established the relationship-centered approach that continues to define our work and laid the foundation for future programs.
2018
Expanding Programs and Services
With Garrett Pearson joining as Executive Director, City of Refuge entered a season of growth. The organization purchased and renovated its first dedicated facility, creating space for new initiatives including Homework Helpers, Healthy Cooking Classes, and a Sewing Program that expanded opportunities for refugees.
2020
Supporting Student Success
City of Refuge launched its School Navigation Program to strengthen connections between refugee families and local schools. The program helps parents navigate the education system while equipping educators to better understand and support the unique experiences and strengths of refugee students.
2021
Responding to Emerging Needs
Debbie Beal became Executive Director as City of Refuge responded to the arrival of Afghan refugees in Columbia following the U.S. evacuation efforts. The organization also launched a Birth Care Program, helping refugee mothers navigate pregnancy, healthcare systems, and early parenting in the United States.
2022
A New Home for Community
City of Refuge purchased its current headquarters at 10 North Garth Avenue and 2 East Walnut, tripling its space for programs and community gatherings. The organization also launched a Youth Program, creating opportunities for refugee teenagers to build relationships, confidence, leadership skills, and belonging.
The new space also made it possible to open City Boutique, a thrift store and artisan marketplace supporting refugee entrepreneurs.
2024
Evolving Needs
In January, City of Refuge opened City Preschool, a cross-cultural preschool that exists to support the social-emotional and language development of children ages three to five years. This milestone came alongside a broader expansion of refugee empowerment programs, reflecting City of Refuge’s ongoing commitment to meeting the evolving needs of refugees and their families in Mid-Missouri.
2025
Global Fusion and More Expansion
In March, City of Refuge opened City Cuisine, bringing global fusion food to the Columbia community while creating new economic opportunities for refugee cooks and entrepreneurs. That same year, City of Refuge purchased the 1 E. Broadway building, expanding its physical footprint to better serve refugees, and took on R-service programs from the Office of Refugee Resettlement, broadening the direct federal support services available to those we serve.
