The United States is in the process of resettling tens of thousands of Afghans who were able to leave Kabul as the U.S. ended its two decades of military presence. During the last 20 years, the U.S. has brought nearly a hundred thousand Afghan refugees-either by means of special immigrant visas or under refugee status. Texas is second only to California in hosting the most Afghan refugees during that time.
Now the International Rescue Committee is helping Afghan refugees establish new homes in Abilene. 40 have already arrived, and the organization expects up to 115 in the coming months.
Hashmat evacuated from Kabul in August and arrived in Abilene in early October. He came to KACU to tell his story.
Local organizations have been collecting donations for the IRC as it helps the refugees get settled. The IRC doesn’t currently need food or clothing donations, but is accepting toiletries, and cash, and has a wish-list of specific items. The organization says it is most in need of help with providing housing and jobs for the refugees. The IRC has put together a list of ways Abilenians can help. Find out how here.