Refugees weaving into upstate N.Y.'s changing economy

Refugees weaving into upstate N.Y.'s changing economy

Upstate New York’s cities take in around 90 percent of all refugees coming to the state. Since the 1970s, waves of refugees have helped arrest declining population and injected much-needed energy into their new communities.

As refugees become more established they transform neglected neighborhoods, open new businesses and establish services to provide support for the next wave of arrivals. They also face several unique challenges.

While studies put an overall positive spin on the economic impact of refugee arrivals, that doesn’t tell the complete story. We're taking a look at how these arrivals are weaving their way into the region’s changing economy.

Business

Refugee communities diversify upstate business environment

Kate O'Connell

The desire for familiar food, clothing, and other products from home is spurring refugee communities in upstate New York to start their own businesses. In…
The Upstate Economy

Refugees stepping into gap in health care services

Kate O'Connell

The Innovation Trail is looking at how refugees have weaved their way into upstate New York's changing economy.On a recent fall day, community health…