A team of us are helping an Afghanistan family of eight get settled into their new life in America. The father worked for the US Army for 20+ years (ran a kitchen for US soldiers) and was promised a safe home in the US for his family in return for his service and the risk he was taking with the Taliban.

Unfortunately, the US has been overwhelmed with those seeking refuge and asylum and non-profit resources are exhausted to say the least.

The father is working, but his limited English prevents him from making a decent wage (it barely covers rent alone). They are receiving some government aid for food and donations for clothing and furniture have been wonderful. Housing is a real problem. Their current rent is $1600 and is increasing to $1800 in Nov. They are not living in a posh apartment. It’s a small 4th floor walk-up with cockroaches. There aren’t many landlords who will accept families with zero credit and government housing isn’t an option for those with their immigrant status.

We’ve held off reaching out to friends and family, but hope we can pull together to get them some financial assistance so they don’t face eviction. Oh, and did I mention they have 6 boys, and one is a 2-month infant? Nothing has been easy for this family (or any of them fleeing from Afghanistan) and their battle isn’t over as they’re still going through immigration hearings.

They are REALLY trying to build a good life in America. The dad is a fantastic chef and the owner of the restaurant where he works (Afghan Bamyan Kabob) said he’s increased traffic by adding new dishes to the menu. The boys would love to play school sports, but are committed to English classes every evening M-F. They also went to school all summer to improve their English and get closer to grade-level proficiency in the US. They hard workers and you would be pressed to meet a group of young men with better manners or larger hearts.

Additionally, Chicago friends, if you and your friends, neighbors, church, etc. are interested in helping a refugee family, please let us know. The list is long for those who have no assistance. If you don’t have the time or resources to commit to a family right now, I encourage you to visit the Refugee Community Connection Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/152284822064409) who is always looking for help from as little as providing diapers to driving people to doctor appointments.

We appreciate your consideration.