Hamed Noorzai and other case workers at the Afghan Alliance in Burlington are facing uncertainty after a federal funding freeze halted the driving program that assists Afghan refugees. This follows a $256,000 grant aimed at supporting their initiatives. Despite challenges, these workers are committed to helping fellow Afghans navigate life in the U.S., emphasizing the importance of their support services.
In Burlington, case workers are aiding newly arrived Afghan refugees despite recent challenges. Hamed Noorzai, a former soldier who fought alongside U.S. forces, has become a key figure. He learned to drive and now instructs others, having assisted around 40 individuals in obtaining their driver’s licenses since October 2023. However, their driving program has been jeopardized due to a federal funding freeze initiated by a White House memo on January 21. Molly Gray, the Afghan Alliance’s executive director, noted that the freeze has created uncertainty, forcing her team to adjust budgets, lay off staff, and seek alternative funding sources.
The Afghan Alliance initially formed from volunteer efforts and secured a $256,000 grant from Health and Human Services, supporting its many programs for the Afghan community in Vermont. They now have seven staff members providing assistance such as English language lessons and training on legal rights. However, they face an uncertain future following funding complications stemming from Trump administration policies, which some believe betray Afghan allies who supported U.S. efforts.
Noorzai reflects on his bittersweet service and sacrifices made in Afghanistan, feeling it is fundamentally honorable to assist fellow Afghans now in the U.S. His journey has not been easy, having arrived without driving skills, but now he aids others in developing independence. Drukhshan Farhad, a program officer, also grapples with the challenges of providing support while questioning whether it fosters dependency.
Farhad, an accomplished student who overcame significant hurdles in Afghanistan, now plays a critical role at the alliance, focusing on community engagement and legal rights training. She expresses pride in her work but knows funding uncertainties could disrupt the assistance provided. Meanwhile, Sayed Yassin Hashimi, another caseworker, expresses determination to maintain support for the Afghan community despite the looming financial instability of the organization, given his experience during the fall of Kabul.
As Afghan refugees adjust to life in the U.S., the challenges they face are immense, particularly without adequate support. The caseworkers emphasize the importance of their roles, recognizing the severe implications of losing funding for services. They remain committed to their mission, with each worker determined to aid fellow refugees in achieving a better life.
The Afghan Alliance in Burlington is experiencing significant challenges due to a recent federal funding freeze, jeopardizing key programs that assist Afghan refugees. Despite the uncertainty, case workers like Hamed Noorzai, Drukhshan Farhad, and Sayed Yassin Hashimi continue to support their community. They emphasize the necessity of their services and remain dedicated to helping fellow Afghans navigate their new lives in the U.S.
Original Source: vtdigger.org
