Now that the family is settled and have weathered their first Virginia snowstorm (not much compared to Kabul’s, they say!) – we’ll update you on things other than “things” about the family.

A big step was navigating TV and computer technology here, especially the aggravations of internet service. Thanks to a UUCville mentor, they’re now connected – and finally able to communicate with family members in Afghanistan, who are okay. Online games comfort their younger son, and PBS shows or cartoons with translated captions can help him learn English. Another mentor showed them a picture dictionary app, which pronounces the English word for any object pictured. Touch and translate! They speak Dari, one of two distinct dialects of the same language in Afghanistan. This summary explains how complex language is in the region.

UUCville mentors are doing great work – connecting the family to English classes, taking them grocery shopping, and guiding them on budgeting and how to access community resources for clothing and food. It’s hard to believe our mentors have known them for only two weeks, but visiting and taking walks together are already becoming shared rituals.

The family is also making connections with other local Afghan families, and attending services at the Islamic Center. They recently housed friends overnight who had lost power in the storm.

Next up, our mentors will be focused on helping them search for work. Meanwhile, if you can help with either of these two items, please email refugeewelcome@uucville.org.

1) food processor

2) “non-see-through” (opaque) drapes. (Window’s 9.5’ long x 5’ high)

THANK YOU! We will continue Refugee Welcome updates but somewhat less frequently now that the family is settling in. They’re adapting as we all are. Stay well and stay tuned!