Help Justin Assist HD's Family's Transition to America

My cousin Justin is a former U.S. Army Captain who attended college at West Point and served three combat tours in Afghanistan. He is pictured here with Hedayatullah. HD for short.

HD was Justin’s interpreter during his deployment to Eastern afghanistan in 2007-2008 and then again in 2010. Years later, America began pulling out of Afghanistan. It became clear that the Taliban would take over and seek retribution against anyone who worked with the Americans which of course, included HD and his family.

HD and family have spent the last 3 years in hiding from the Taliban while seeking asylum in the US. While going through the long, slow application process with Justin’s help, HD and family were finally evacuated to a relocation camp in Qatar in May where they were able to finalize the application at the American Embassy. Their Visas were finally approved and they expect HD, his wife and 6 children (ages 1-16) to arrive in Michigan in the next several weeks.

Many friends and family have expressed wanting to help and now is that time. The assimilation into American culture will be difficult. HD’s wife and children do not speak English. They are not well educated. Their home province of Paktika (near the Pakistan border) did not have consistent access to plumbing, electricity, or even clean drinking water. Their tribe survived on subsistence farming. Though they have the full support and assistance of the American Embassy and an assigned case worker in Flint, MI….they will be arriving with barely more than the clothes on their back and a place to live. They will have nothing else.

We are asking for donations to help clothe the family, provide household needs, and to purchase a vehicle that can transport 8 people. Funds collected will be given to Justin and spent directly on the family for the above mentioned needs.

Please know that the last 3 years for this family have been emotional and fleeting. The asylum they are seeking and so deserving of is 100% due to the care and guidance that HD provided to Americans, including Justin. Any donations are very appreciated! Justin, HD and family thank you for your help!