Asheville Becomes a Sanctuary for Afghan and Ukrainian Refugees Seeking New Beginnings

Asheville Welcomes New Lives: The Resettlement Journey of Afghan and Ukrainian Refugees

Asheville, North Carolina, has become a haven for those seeking a new start after fleeing their homelands. Among them is Farzad, an Afghan young man who arrived in the U.S. shortly after the Taliban regained control of Kabul in August 2021. Picture this: A young man with dreams, landing at Asheville Regional Airport with nothing but hope and determination. Farzad describes his journey, saying, “When I arrived at the airport, I was confused about where I was going. Everything was brand new for me.”

First Steps in a New Land

Farzad, whose real name is kept secret to protect him and his family, found himself welcomed by a caseworker from Catholic Charities. This initial support was crucial; he stayed in a hotel for his first night and began his resettlement journey. “I thought, ‘OK, when I go over, there is nobody helping,’” he recounted, reminiscing about his initial fears. However, the caseworkers quickly became his lifeline.

For the first 90 days, Catholic Charities provided Farzad with intensive case management that helped him navigate the challenges of settling into a new life. They assisted him in securing a Social Security ID, obtaining work authorization, and even finding a local family to live with. “The family helped me with money, food, and clothes,” he explained, expressing gratitude for their support. He still refers to them with affection, calling the woman of the household his “sister.”

Cultural Adjustments

As he settled in, Farzad also adjusted to the nuances of American culture. For instance, he learned that in Afghanistan, discussing someone’s body size isn’t considered rude, but here, it can be a sensitive topic. He also found joy in trying American food, especially mashed potatoes, and discovered new beverages like Fanta, thanks to his host family. Yet, he still holds a special place for green tea, a beloved staple from his homeland. “In my experience working with our Afghan clients, they are very disappointed in the tea here,” joked Max Gibbons from Pisgah Legal Services (PLS), as laughter filled the room.

Aiding Ukrainian Refugees

In addition to Farzad’s story, Asheville has become a refuge for Ukrainian families fleeing war. A local charity, Hope for Ukraine, organized a summer camp that welcomed around 70 Ukrainian children. This initiative allows children, both with Ukrainian heritage and newcomers, to connect and share experiences. According to Yuri Boyechko, CEO of Hope for Ukraine, summer camp days are filled with swimming, arts and crafts, and just being kids—something many of them have missed due to the ongoing conflict. It’s a time to play, relax, and build friendships.

Support from the Community

Support for these resettlements extends beyond individual caseworkers. Organizations like Lutheran Services Carolinas (LSC) and Catholic Charities are dedicated to helping both Afghan and Ukrainian newcomers. They assist with locating housing, signing up for benefits such as Medicaid and food stamps, and enrolling children in school. Over the past two years, these organizations have witnessed firsthand how resilient these individuals are. Many Afghans have moved from entry-level jobs to higher-paying ones and have even purchased vehicles.

Farzad’s Journey Towards His Dreams

After working various jobs, from dishwashing to trucking, Farzad has set his sights on a career in aviation. “My great ambition is to be a pilot,” he said, eyes bright with enthusiasm. He is currently undergoing training, which is an exciting step towards achieving his dreams. His journey has not only been about survival but also about carving out a life filled with aspirations and growth.

A Safe Community

For both Farzad and the Ukrainian children, the importance of community cannot be understated. They have built connections that not only provide emotional support but also foster a sense of belonging. Farzad’s journey reflects the broader theme of resilience shared by many refugees—navigating through obstacles to find hope and purpose in a new land.

Asheville continues to be a beacon for new beginnings, where individuals like Farzad can rebuild their lives, dream big, and integrate into a supportive community. It serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the kindness that can be found when people come together to help those in need.