Ways Americans Can Support Afghan Refugees
My heart is so heavy watching events unfold in Afghanistan. As I read about Zarifa Ghafari’s harrowing escape to Germany, all I could think about was what a tremendous decision it must be to leave. She most certainly would be murdered if she stayed. A young female mayor who is an outspoken advocate for women and girls. And yet, leaving her country. Her people. Her life. Her work. What an impossible choice.
As Afghans flee and resettle in other countries it is my deepest hope that their host countries welcome them with open arms and loads of support. Now is a great time to donate and volunteer with local resettlement organizations in your area.
I have compiled a list, thanks to my Instagram friends, of organizations that are currently supporting Afghan refugees in the United States.
I list them by state so that if you are interested in volunteering you know where to look first. That said, all of these organizations are in need of financial support and many have online wishlists for supplies.
Second Families in Southern California has a particular need for undergarments and period products.
Specifically: Women’s bikini or hipster underwear and bras, Men’s boxer briefs and ribbed tank tops, children’s underwear, and period products.
They have a Target wishlist that you can order directly from and they will be shipped to the organization. Here’s the link.
>>> You can always google [refugee services or resettlement programs + your city or state] to find organizations in your area that might be in need of help <<<<
Below is the list of orgs sent to me by my Instagram community from folks who work in this space. Please feel free to message me with additional resources + needs and I will add them here.
Some of the organizations are religiously affiliated.
CALIFORNIA - Second Families
CALIFORNIA - Miryslist Emergency Action Fund
CONNECTICUT - iris
ILLINOIS - RefugeeOne
ILLINOIS - MIRA
MINNESOTA - Arrive Ministries
MONTANA - Soft Landing
OREGON - Refugee Care Collective
OREGON - Catholic Charities Oregon
PENNSYLVANIA - Hello Neighbor
RHODE ISLAND - DORCAS International
RHODE ISLAND - Refugee Dream Center
TEXAS - Refugee Services of Texas
TEXAS - RAICES Texas
TEXAS - Center for Refugee Services
WASHINGTON DC - Lutheran Social Services
Open Door Policy is an organization that upskills qualified and motivated displaced individuals, and connects them to remote, digital work.
If you are an employer, who has opportunities, you should be connecting with these folks!
They also have a fantastic list of actions you can take to support Afghans right now. Here is the link.
And remember! The Welcome Blanket Project is always accepting hand-made blankets to welcome refugees to the United States if you feel like you want to do a little love crafting, in addition to your financial donations. You can learn more here.
My heart is with the women and girl’s of Afghanistan.