Support a Family of Afghan Refugees in Belmont

Dear Friends,

We are the local residents of Belmont and coordinators of a small but compassionate group of community volunteers who are providing support to an Afghan family of four in Belmont. The family fled Afghanistan under incredibly difficult circumstances last year, leaving behind their large extended family and the only life they ever knew.

The family includes Amin, Zakirah, Asma (16), and Ali (13). They feel very fortunate to be in the US starting a new life, which involves learning a new language, adjusting to a new culture, attending school, and finding appropriate employment. They love Belmont and hope to be able to remain here.

While they have been receiving financial transition assistance, they will shortly be expected to be more self-supporting. At the moment, Amin, the father, is looking for another full-time job, while his wife is studying English and working part-time.

We are currently raising money to help them pay for some of their essential living expenses, such as rent, utilities, transportation, and other household needs. They will need to move from their current apartment due to the sale of the building in the spring, which will undoubtedly bring higher living costs.

Our goal is to raise $20,000. We hope you will consider making a donation of any amount to this fund.

Thank you.

Fran and Shelley

Update: July 18, 2023

The Bakhshis are settling into their new apartment on Flett Street in Belmont. This move has meant some increased expenses for the family, including higher rent. Amin has been working at Trader Joe's in Arlington since January. Zakirah, who has been working at Cheeky Monkey in Belmont Center, will be looking for a new job in the next few weeks. A new job will require additional training which may require some financing. Asma is taking English language classes in Cambridge this summer. Ali is taking two weeks of summer courses through Boston Leadership Institute. Both would like some paid employment to help with family expenses. Donations are sought to supplement the family's monthly living expenses, especially with the anticipated temporary loss of employment for Zakirah. Thank you to all who have donated in the past and to those who consider making donations now.