Since the fall of Kabul in August 2021, thousands of Afghan refugees have entered Washington State. For many, the rapid transition to America has left them struggling to adjust to their new communities. IRC Seattle along with local partners found a high need to help families feel safe and comfortable in their new homes.

On Saturday February 21, 2023, IRC, MAPS AMEN and World Relief Western Washington came together to host a Housing and Safety Resource Fair in Federal Way attended by over 70 Afghan adults and children. Families received a group cultural orientation on public safety, such as how and when to contact 911, and how to report problems within their rental units, and then had a chance to meet community partners to learn about local services and resources.

The night included dental exams provided by HealthPoint, ESL connections with Refugee Women’s Alliance (ReWA), outreach by Federal Way Police Department, presentations and information shared by HNN Property Management, and resource tables hosted by City of Federal Way, Federal Way Public Schools, Multi-Service Center, and Kabul Washington Association. We were also joined by school leadership from Rainier View Elementary and the Highline College StartZone. The evening ended with dinner and time for families and community partners to mingle.

Special gratitude to Karma Indian Cuisine And Lounge for feeding the community with delicious food for the event, and to the staff at Todd Beamer High School for hosting the event in their space.