Catholic charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City (CCAOKC) and the Council on American-Islamic Relations, Oklahoma (CAIR-OK) have welcomed in the first group of Afghan refugees into Oklahoma City.
According to the news release, the refugees landed in Oklahoma City late last night, being welcomed by CAIR-OK with welcome kits that contained items such as a copy of the Qur'an, and Islamic prayer rug, and essential hygiene products.
In addition to the welcome kits, the news release said the refugees were provided with halal food from a local Muslim restaurant to serve as a reminder that their faith and culture are welcomed, safe, and celebrated in the state of Oklahoma.
CCAOKC provided the refugees with transportation to a safe, clean environment for them to live in while they begin to transition into their new living arrangements.
"CAIR Oklahoma is uniquely positioned to help make sure that [refugees] transitions are smooth, compassionate and welcoming," said CAIR-OK Civil Rights Director, Veronica Laizure. "We are happy to be a part of this historic efforts and welcome our Afghan friends to the Oklahoma family."
CCAOKC Executive Director Patrick Raglow shared in Laizure's sentiments, saying they will continue the mission of the 13 Americans who lost their lives to provide safety and security to the Afghan refugees.
"We have been gratified by the outpouring of support from across the community and invite all others of goodwill to do their part in offering welcome to these new members of our community," Raglow said.
"We... anticipate needing the community to step up in other ways, including in the areas of housing, medical care, storage for donated furniture and housewares, education, counseling, and more," Laizure said. "There will be many opportunities to get involved, so we encourage everyone to reach out to us."
According to reports, Oklahoma is expecting 1,800 Afghan refugees to arrive over the coming months. 1,000 of those will be relocated to Oklahoma City and 800 will be relocated to Tulsa.
If you would like to volunteer to assist with the new arrivals, visit CCAOKC'S Refugee Services.
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