25 Afghan refugees, a first wave, are expected in Tucson by mid-October | Subscriber

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She said the 25 refugees who come to Tucson will arrive as evacuees under a humanitarian probation program and will not qualify for state food programs or medical services like the refugees who qualify for the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) that created was used to protect Afghan allies US forces in Afghanistan.

Those arriving on the SIV can choose where they want to go, and most settle in Texas, California, and Virginia where they have family or friends, Phillips said.

“Arizona has some Afghans with SIVs who have been relocated here, but we are not a big state for SIV relocations,” she said.

Lutheran Social Services are helping refugees apply for work permits, find employment, enroll children in school, and find other resources to support individuals and families.

“This program is not a treatment program or a recovery program. It is a program to help people in the United States, and in our country people work to pay for their expenses. Everyone has to work, ”she said.

“These people are fleeing death and terrible trauma. The resettlement process includes mental health support and addresses physical issues. It’s part of what we do. We connect people with the help they need, ”said Phillips.

Refugees are matched with volunteers and others to practice English, find their way around, visit groceries and drug stores, and learn what daily life is like and what needs to be done. Afghan refugees who made Tucson their home years ago are introduced to the newly settled Afghans so that they can adapt and feel comfortable in their new surroundings.

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