Many people face great difficulties in their countries due to war, natural disaster, violence or political oppression. Many flee their countries, their journeys are very difficult, and they aren’t always welcomed in places they arrive. Even when they arrive in places where they are welcomed, they are likely to face many obstacles.

Our fifth grade class was fortunate enough to hear all about the problems that a refugee from Afghanistan named Fahim had to go through to safely arrive in the U.S. He talked about how hard it was to leave his home after the invasion of the Taliban. He was lucky enough to arrive here safely, and he was also lucky to be able to get a job. Sadly, he is separated from his family and his wife who are still in Afghanistan. So, as a project in our fifth grade class, we chose to make sure that Amherst and other communities are able to give refugees the support they need to build a new life here.

Our fifth grade class has decided to work together with Catholic Charities of Springfield’s Welcome Home Refugee Resettlement Program. This is a program where refugees who arrive in our area can find help getting a job, a home and more. As a class, we are working on different ideas. We think that one of the most important things people can do is to volunteer in a Circle of Care where a group of six or more help refugee families successfully live in their new community. We are planning to hold an event at our school where people can learn about the obstacles refugees face, sign up to volunteer and donate important items refugee families need. In conclusion, we hope refugees arrive in our community and get the support that reflects the welcoming place in which we live.

Emory Albertson, HeedoNoh, and Symantha Green

Fifth grade students at at Fort River Elementary in Amherst

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