Dear friends and supporters,

I'm reaching out today on behalf of two incredible individuals who mean the world to me: Ehsan and Azim. Their journey has been marked by countless challenges, but also by unwavering determination and love for their family. We are starting this fundraising campaign in the hopes of reuniting Ehsan and Azim with their family. Since the Taliban's takeover in their home country, they've faced unimaginable hardships, forced to leave behind everything they knew and loved. Ehsan and Azim, who are still in their 20s, have been working tirelessly since then to raise the funds needed to bring their parents, three siblings, and brother-in-law to Canada so they can be reunited.

A Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH) organization has initially agreed to assist in the process, however, a substantial amount needs to be deposited to facilitate this and receive formal confirmation from them and the constituent group.

Living in Pakistan has failed to provide their family with a sense of security, instead creating an unprecedented level of fear and anxiety. The dire conditions and lack of hope have deeply affected their mental health. Stories of relatives losing their lives and the condition of those recently deported back to Afghanistan have compelled them to live a life of fear and instability.

Azim and Ehsan’s brother-in-law, Besmellah, who is an active reporter and writer for Kabul Now, lives in fear and uncertainty due to his visa situation. He must renew his visa every six months, hoping for a day when he won't have to fear the possibility of not receiving an extension. The family, especially the children, live in very harsh conditions, faced with constant danger and the risk of persecution. They lack the means to receive a proper education or engage in extracurricular activities necessary for their holistic growth. Moreover, the employment opportunities available for the educated members of the family are next to none.

Azim and Ehsan are deeply appreciative of the warm reception they've received in Canada, where they've found a true home. After over two years, they've diligently saved to bring their family to Canada and share their new home with those that mean everything to them. Despite their efforts, their savings fall short of the $82,069 needed for the immigration process. They've managed to cover $40,000 of the total amount and are hopeful to raise the rest of the funds with the support of family, friends, and individuals who sympathize with their cause.

The funds raised will be deposited into a trust account with the SAH organization, who will be responsible for paying for the application process, resettlement, accommodation, and other basic needs of the refugee family. The SAH organization has their own calculations of how they will spend the funds to address the most urgent needs of the refugees until they are able to find employment and get settled in Canada.

Despite the discomfort of being on the receiving end of this campaign, the brothers believe that the help and contribution to this cause would save their family members from being returned back to Afghanistan and help the women and children in the family to dream again.

With your support, we can help this family find peace and a chance to rebuild their lives in a country that values diversity and basic human rights. Every donation, no matter how small, will bring the family closer to safety and stability. By contributing to this campaign, you become a part of their journey to a better future. Your help can bring this family back together, allowing Ehsan and Azim to once again enjoy simple pleasures like spending a summer day together, laughing, sharing stories, and savoring their mom's delicious kabobs—a favorite tradition they've missed dearly.

Thank you for being a beacon of hope in the lives of those who need it the most.

Besmellah and Mahbooba on a visit to their hometown before the Taliban takeover.