You Helped an Afghan Family Start a New Life in Houston

You helped Saahir and his son, Ali, escape the Taliban and find safety and opportunity in Houston.

Saahir worked for a United States-based company in Afghanistan. Because of his work, he was a target of the Taliban as it quickly took over the country. He and his family arrived in Houston with little more than they could carry after a tumultuous escape to start a new life.  Now they are well on their way to a successful new life.

Families like Saahir’s were not alone when they arrived in the United States last summer. Because of your generosity, Saahir and his family got the help they needed to get settled and adjusted to life in their new country.

Your gifts provided the family a fully furnished apartment, culturally appropriate food, and everything they needed to make ends meet while Saahir eagerly awaited approval of his work authorization application.

Your support also enabled Saahir’s 8-year-old son, Ali, to attend English classes provided while they were still in the hotel.  Ali is excited about being in American and was very eager to start school.

After about a month in a hotel, the family was moved into an apartment and Ali was enrolled in school. Surrounded by new American peers, he quickly picked up more English and is getting more help alongside other Afghan students through Catholic Charities’ Refugee Youth Program.

Because of you, Ali’s English-speaking skill and confidence are growing daily, and Saahir is getting help to find a job so he can take care of his family. Thank you for supporting our new neighbors as they adjust to life in the United States!