written by volunteer Alexis Potts
I began volunteering with the Afghan Arrivals Circle (127), almost two years ago. I had recently retired and had always thought I would like to help refugees who had recently arrived in Australia. I found out about COFA on an internet search, sent an email, followed up by a phone call and soon I was meeting the O. family.
The family O, made up of an Afghan widow Z and 7 of her 11 children initially had many needs. There were up to three visits a week to Centrelink, in addition to numerous medical appointments, shopping trips and so on. From the start the family welcomed and accepted me, and plied me with food. I soon felt comfortable and at home when with them.
When one of the daughters could not attend school because of a blood clot in her leg, I began helping her with her studies and soon her three sisters were pleading for help as well. They were all attending secondary schools and struggling terribly. They had been placed in upper grades because of their ages, but were still desperately in need of help with basic maths and English skills. Late night phone calls for help with assignments due the next day are common, but I admit I love every minute of it and have found a purpose that I had lost when l retired from the work force.
The other members of Afghan Arrivals Circle have assisted, supported and encouraged me during this time and their contributions towards school uniforms, school camps etc have improved the lives of the family immeasurably. One of the other Circles supplied a new laptop to one of the girls, who would have been unable to attend a TAFE course without it.
The area where I have had the most difficulty and not been able to support them as much as they need, is in regard to acquiring the government services and entitlements they are entitled to. Many times applications have been submitted to apply for benefits, only to be denied because they subsequently do not attend appointments or supply additional information. I believe they still need a case worker or similar, more familiar with these matters, to assist them in this area.
Three of the girls are completing year 12 this year and hope to pursue nursing careers. The family now have a car and they are largely capable of caring for all of their own needs. I have now taken on helping three of Z’s young grandsons, one who has just started school and is having difficulties. Circle of Friends have improved the quality of the family’s lives in many ways and they are always expressing their gratitude.
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