But finding social groups, connecting with others, and feeling safe in their new neighborhoods aren’t often top of mind for refugees or the U.S. government. As Barati got himself on solid footing in the U.S., he found it fulfilling to give back to his new community by working with Newcomers Access Center. Though her daughters easily made friends with children at school, Hnatova said she is having a hard time making friends. To help families like Hnatova’s meet others, groups such as Newcomers Access Center organize events and opportunities for recent immigrants with shared experiences to come together. “When I was in Peru, maybe, I never thought about community because I was part of that country,” she said.

Source: Los Angeles Times December 23, 2023 22:39 UTC