KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM)- Just a few months ago, they were running from the Taliban in Afghanistan, not sure they would survive. Now hundreds of refugees are preparing to make new homes in West Michigan, giving them something special to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.
Over 1,300 Afghani refugees are expected to come to Michigan, with around 400 to the Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo areas. A few have already arrived.
Kalamazoo Public Schools has set up special welcoming centers at Lincoln International and Milwood Middle School to help the Afghan children and those arriving from other middle eastern countries get acclimated. Superintendent Dr. Rita Raichoudhuri says many speak no English.
The families have been living on military bases in temporary housing since arriving in the U.S.
Non-profit groups like Immigration Connection, Bethany Christian, Samaritas, and other community groups will be helping the refugees work through immigration paperwork, find housing, and get settled.
Comments