New Beginnings: Afghan families share their hopes and impressions upon arrival.

"My Children Can Play Outside"

Having only been in the US for a few hours, the father of the first family to arrive in Houston, Texas, shared his positive impressions of their new home. "We got in late last night, and the HMC staff were with us," he said, indicating the HMC case managers. "The kids were exhausted, but they're happy now. I think we like it here; the kids can play outside," he continued, expressing gratitude for a safe space for his children's outdoor activities. The HMC team assured him that their housing was permanent, not temporary.

"My uncle lives here," he disclosed, elaborating on their choice to relocate to Houston with their three children. "He described life in the US to me, and I chose to move here with my family."

Inquired about his views on Houston's diversity, he replied with hope, "I've only just arrived, but I believe it's a great place for my children to grow up." His comments convey an optimistic perspective on his family's future in the city.

Education: The Big Dream

The second family shared that their primary reason for choosing the US, and specifically Houston, was the educational opportunities that their children would have. "In Afghanistan, many places do not let girls her age go to school anymore," the father remarked, referring to his eldest daughter. "However, I'm optimistic that here they will have such opportunities, and we can all find jobs that we like."

He and his wife dream of their children attending college and becoming professionals in the US. The father mentioned that his decision was reinforced by videos of Houston sent by former colleagues and family members residing there. He also conducted online research and utilized maps to familiarize himself with the city.

Aware that he might not secure a job akin to the one he had, the father recognizes the need to rebuild his career. Yet, he and his wife are resolute in their hard work and dedication to succeed in the US, with their hope and dedication shining through as they start anew in Houston.