Prior to their arrival in Wichita, the IRC must set up a household that includes essential items for the arriving family. One way community members and organizations can contribute is to donate these goods which allows clients to to utilize limited resettlement funds on pressing needs such as rent and utilities as they work towards self-sufficiency.

Rabia Afghan and her family arrived in the United States in April 2022 as part of “Operation Allies Welcome,” fleeing the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. Initially welcomed by IRC staff member Bill Tuffin in Virginia, their paths crossed again in January 2023 when Bill, now an Employment Specialist at the IRC in Denver, was tasked with helping Rabia find employment. Despite language barriers and the challenges of resettlement, Rabia secured a job at a local hotel and, through determination and support from the IRC, was promoted within two years. Her story highlights the critical role of community support in helping refugees rebuild their lives and the ongoing challenges they face in their new homes.