Congregations, resettlement agencies, among other organizations across Wisconsin, are actively doing the important work of helping hundreds of Afghan refugees establish new homes and establish supportive relationships with their communities. In Madison, Bethany United Methodist Church and First Baptist Church are partnering to help four households in an extended family of Afghan refugees. These households have eight adults and 15 children, including a newborn who is now their first US citizen! This ministry complements support provided by Jewish Social Services, the resettlement agency for the family, Open Doors for Refugees, among others.
In working with the Afghan families, we have seen how very difficult resettlement is for them. We have learned of other Afghan families that are isolated and that have needs that aren’t being met for various reasons, including language and cultural barriers. Helping them become self-sufficient is a multi-faceted effort requiring an on-going relationship that seeks to balance mentoring and support of their needs with letting them take responsibility for their own lives and the consequences of their actions. It has been a rewarding but challenging experience. We have learned much about their culture and have shared much about our culture. This friendship began with directly connecting with the Afghan families, something that is a real programmatic need for congregations also wanting to befriend Afghan families.