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A Huge Help from Pathway Students

Updated: Aug 28


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This week, a group of students from Pathway Church’s Week of Hope rolled up their sleeves and made a big impact. They helped haul out a large pile of renovation trash into the dumpster—clearing the way for more progress inside The Refuge.


We’re incredibly thankful for their hard work and servant hearts. It’s efforts like these that move us closer to opening our doors to immigrant families in need of a safe, welcoming space.


Summer Renovations Are Moving Fast



From painting walls to tearing out old carpet, the transformation is moving quickly. Thanks to the hard work of dozens of volunteers, this building is becoming a true home.



There’s still plenty to do—stay tuned for upcoming volunteer days, events, and other ways to get involved.


Immigration News



Here are three important updates that may affect members of our community:



TPS for Haitians Extended


  1. The Department of Homeland Security has extended and redesignated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti through February 3, 2026. This extension allows current TPS beneficiaries to retain their status, while the redesignation allows eligible Haitians residing in the U.S. as of June 3, 2024, to apply for TPS for the first time.


For more information and application details, visit the official USCIS announcement.



Longer Work Permit Extensions for Asylum Seekers


  1. Asylum seekers now receive up to 540 days of automatic work permit extensions, helping reduce gaps in employment and easing the renewal process.


Read the update: USCIS Policy Manual



If you or someone you know is affected by any of these changes, please contact us. We’re here to support you.


What’s Happening in Congress



Here are three immigration-related bills currently being discussed:



  1. New Way Forward Act (H.R. 536): Aims to end criminal penalties for immigration violations and reduce mandatory detention.


  2. American Families United Act (H.R. 2920): Would allow immigration judges more discretion in cases involving U.S. citizen family members.


  3. Farm Workforce Modernization Act (H.R. 4319): Offers legal status and a path to citizenship for undocumented farmworkers.



We’ll keep you informed as things develop.


Upcoming Community Events in Fort Wayne



Tacos, Tequila & Margarita Fest


August 2 @ Headwaters Park

Sample tacos from local taquerías, enjoy tequila tastings, and enjoy live entertainment.




Fiesta Fort Wayne


August 23 @ Headwaters Park

Celebrate Hispanic culture with food, music, folkloric dance, and family activities.




Culture Fest: A Gathering of Neighbors


September 13th (10am - 2pm) @ At the corner of Clay & Berry St

Culture Fest is a gathering of neighbors to celebrate and connect Allen County’s diverse communities with live music and dance, an artisan and entrepreneur market, resource fair, food truck, and children’s activities.



📞 Questions? Want to Sponsor a Room?

Call us at 260-800-1558 or email TheRefugeFW@gmail.com




🧡 You Make This Possible

Every sponsored room brings a family closer to safety and belonging.




📬 Share this opportunity with a friend

📥 Want to feature your church, business, or organization? Reach out today!


 
 
 

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Our Mission:
To provide resources, connections, and a welcoming home for international individuals and families, empowering them to thrive in their new community.

 

Our Vision:
To be a vibrant multicultural hub in Fort Wayne, fostering community integration and support for newcomers as they build new lives here.

© 2025 The Refuge. All rights reserved.

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