The Catholic Charities New York recently offered resettlement assistance to Afghan nationals. This group is the Catholic charity agency of the Archdiocese of New York.
Currently, Afghans seek relocation in the United States following the conflict in their country.
'Unique Moment In History'
Catholic New York (CNY) reported that the state expects over a thousand evacuees in March 2022.
CNY interviewed Mario Russell, Catholic Charities Immigrant and Refugee Services director. He considered this event a "unique moment in history in our shared experience as human beings to be present to.”
He reiterated that it is about time that the state welcomes these people who struggle due to violence. The director stated that the Afghan nationals suffered from "incredibly difficult hardships."
Russell claimed that these families have accomplished "extraordinary things" in Afghanistan.
According to him, the refugees put themselves in danger for putting their welfare forward. At the same time,they also fight for their rights, as well as the rights of women and young girls.
Russell believed that New Yorkers, the Church, and the Catholic Charities must fight with them.
"We hold this as a moment to stand up and stand forward and stand with these brothers and sisters," he said.
The director attested that Afghans had already created a difference. They attempted to change their country that has been suffering over the years.
Russell, however, said that the state must help them "continue what were and will be good lives."
Efforts to Help Refugees, Immigrants
As per the CNY, Catholic Charities is among the three agencies that offer resettlement assistance. These agencies assist refugees in relocating to the New York metropolitan area.
Several arriving refugees reportedly receive relocation support from Catholic Charities. Some of these individuals are unaccompanied youngsters, CNY reported.
Aside from resettlement, the agency also offers free legal advice to Afghan nationals.
Meanwhile, Catholic Charities also helps those with refugee status and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV). It aids those who are looking for possible resettlement. Apart from that, it also offers help to those who are seeking employment.
Moreover, the Catholic agency likewise assists in making education accessible to children.
New York State Welcomes Afghan Nationals
On the other hand, New York State reportedly welcomed Afghan nationals as early as September.
New York officials received them under the leadership of Gov. Kathy Hochul. The state has reportedly mobilized resettlement agencies in different areas to help the refugees.
Aside from NYC, local agencies in Buffalo, Albany, and Rochester commit to helping these evacuees. Organizations in Utica and Syracuse also provide resettlement assistance.
Governor Hochul said that the state's tradition has been to help those "seeking a safe haven."
The governor further stated that helping the Afghan nationals is a way to continue the tradition. She even issued a proclamation declaring Sept. 10-19, 2021, "Welcoming Week."
According to her, this proclamation called on New Yorkers to welcome immigrants and refugees.
Governor Hochul emphasized that the New York State opened its doors to the Afghan nationals. She also promised to give them the assistance they needed to start a new life in the U.S.
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