Freshta is an 18-year-old Afghan girl who fled Kabul at age 16, with her family’s blessing, in order to escape the Taliban. After many months in a refugee camp and interim placements in the Middle East, West Virginia and Idaho, she has found a home with UUFR. She arrived at RDU on Tuesday, February 21st! A pool of volunteers has committed to be her Support Circle. Through regular meetings, they will guide her integration into American life. Volunteers in her larger Community Circle will respond to requests as needed – to join the Community Circle listserve, click here.

Freshta is spending a few days in Raleigh with Sarah Ford Neorr’s Afghan host daughter before moving to her host family in Apex. Jen and Daniel Zoller and their children Stella and Ozzy have welcomed Freshta to their home and family. Thank you, Zollers! Early next week, she will meet with local refugee agencies and county staff. She will be making arrangements for her refugee benefits as well as making decisions about continuing her education. She was in her junior year in high school when the Taliban shut down her school. We are thrilled to have Freshta with us and to have so many wonderful volunteers!