“To have a land without war, without explosion…” Somaya says she’s grateful her children can grow up in peace. The Afghan refugee moved with her husband, Ali, and children to a Morris County duplex where they finally feel safe though they face new hurdles, like getting drivers’ licenses and finding jobs.
Somaya is a surgeon who hopes to complete her residency in New Jersey. After fleeing Afghanistan the family is among about 100 refugees who have found new homes in the state through the International Rescue Committee and local volunteers. The IRC tries to provide cultural support as it resettles families. “People who speak their language, go to the same mosque, understand their religion and their cultural background — is absolutely important in creating a sense of community in their new home,” said Alison Millan of the IRC. Almost 11,000 Afghans still awaiting resettlement are living in temporary housing at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
Organizations that are helping Afghan refugees to settle in New Jersey welcome donations. These include: International Rescue Committee, One World One Love, RAMP and Welcome Home Jersey City.
