The program helps Afghans find jobs, start businesses, and connect with cultural and educational programs. For example, the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant has already helped launch 11 businesses
The graduates showcased their beautifully sewn clothes and products. Many attendees eagerly purchased these handmade items, supporting the women’s work while finding special clothing for Eid
Abbas faced barriers from the start, social, physical, and political. Yet none of them could drown his dreams Today, he stands not just as a decorated athlete, but as a global symbol of resilience and hope
Culture is the heart of our families. Celebrating Afghan traditions, music, food, and holidays together helps children feel a strong sense of belonging and respect for their heritage.
Photo credit: Ariana News
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3. Big City Dreams Crushing Your Wallet? Here’s Why St. Louis Is the Afghan Community’s Fresh Start
4. Own the Future, Apply for the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant Today
5. TPS for Afghanistan Is Ending - Act Now to Protect Your Future in the U.S.
6. Building Friendships, Fitness, and a Future, Afghan Support Program Launches Weekly Youth Soccer Sessions
7. Abbas Karimi’s Rise from Refugee to Paralympic Swimmer 8. Your Next Chapter Begins in St. Louis 9. A City of History, Growth, and Hope
18 Afghan Women Graduate from Sewing Program in St. Louis
Raising Afghan Kids with Pride and Opportunity
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AFGHAN SUPPORT PROGRAM
Welcome to The Afghan Journal, a publication of the Afghan Support Program at the International Institute of St. Louis.
The Afghan Journal is a monthly publication rooted in the heart of St Louis, Missouri, and created as part of the Afghan Support Program at the International Institute of St Louis This journal was established to serve as a trusted platform for stories, voices, and experiences that reflect the Afghan journey past, present, and future. In every issue, we aim to capture the resilience, culture, and dreams of Afghans as they build new lives while staying connected to their heritage.
The Afghan Support Program is dedicated to helping Afghans thrive in their new home. Through access to housing support, job placement services, small business grants, legal guidance, healthcare enrollment, and more, the program offers critical resources to support families during resettlement and beyond. It also focuses on preserving culture and community through educational classes in Pashto, Dari, and Quran studies for children, as well as sewing and vocational opportunities for women. Soccer teams, driving classes, and support with school enrollment are just a few of the ways the program strengthens everyday life.
Importantly, this initiative has also supported the development of key institutions such as the Afghan Community Center and the U S -Afghan Chamber of Commerce spaces where Afghan identity, enterprise, and unity are nurtured Thanks to the collective effort of the Afghan community itself, St. Louis is now home to Masjid Abu Bakr Sediq a proud symbol of faith and self-determination.
The Afghan Journal is published in English, Pashto, and Dari, in print and online. It exists to empower, inform, and inspire. This is your voice, your reflection, and your community. Sign up to receive future issues by scanning the QR code or visiting AfghanCenter.org.
“Together, we are not just rebuilding lives we are building a thriving community, rooted in dignity, culture, and collective strength.” Hamdullah Hamdard, Director of Afghan Support Program
For many Afghan families arriving in the United States, the allure of big cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago is understandable.
These urban centers promise opportunities and vibrant communities However, the reality is that the cost of living in these cities can be overwhelming.
According to a 2023 report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average rents in New York and Los Angeles are nearly double the national median, with housing costs consuming 40–50% of monthly income for many newcomers.
When financial stability feels uncertain, staying in these cities may limit your chances to rebuild your life. That’s why making the decision early to move to an affordable, welcoming city is crucial.
St. Louis, Missouri, stands out as an ideal option. Not only is the cost of living significantly lower, with housing costs nearly 50% less than in major metros, but the Afghan community here is thriving, supported by a network dedicated to your success.
At the center of this supportive environment is the Afghan Support Program of the International Institute of St. Louis. This program is open to all Afghans, regardless of when you arrived in the U S , providing free rent and utilities, grocery assistance, legal help, school enrollment support, and access to Medicaid and SNAP benefits.
More than just meeting immediate needs, the program helps Afghans find jobs, start businesses, and connect with cultural and educational programs. For example, the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant has already helped launch 11 businesses, from auto repair shops to clothing stores, boosting both economic growth and community pride.
St. Louis offers you a real chance to belong, to build, and to thrive, but it starts with being legal and ready to embrace a fresh beginning. This is your opportunity to join a growing, vibrant Afghan community with strong support If you’re ready to make that choice, your future starts here.
Contact us today at: hamdardh@iistl.org or (314)-655-0917
Own the Future, ApplyfortheAfghan EntrepreneurshipGrantToday
If you’re an Afghan who arrived in the U.S. after August 2021 and have a dream of starting your own business, this is your opportunity to make it real. Whether you're already living in St. Louis or willing to move here, the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant is open, and it could change your life.
This unique grant program offers $20,000 in funding to eligible Afghan entrepreneurs who are ready to launch or grow their small business. The best part? If you're living outside of St. Louis but are willing to relocate if selected, you are still eligible to apply. And we’ll support your move, offering help with finding housing, covering three months’ rent and security deposit, plus up to three months of utility expenses. That means the chance to build your dream in a welcoming and supportive city is just one application away.
So far, 11 Afghan business owners have already turned their ideas into reality through this grant, businesses, clothing shops, media companies, and more They’ve built independence, stability, and a future for their families You could be next
Applications are open now and the deadline to apply is June 20, 2025. The grant is competitive, and only selected applicants will move to the next stage Those selected will be invited to present their business plans to a panel of judges and share how they plan to grow their business. The $20,000 grant will be issued in three installments over 12 months, helping ensure a stable path forward.
To qualify, applicants must be Afghan nationals who arrived in the U.S. on or after August 2021 and have a valid business license or LLC, an EIN, and a basic financial statement. This is more than just a grant; it’s a launchpad to build something lasting for yourself and your community.
If you’ve ever imagined running your own business, whether it’s a bakery, tailoring shop, media company, or anything in between, now is the time to act Apply by scanning the QR code or submitting your application through the link. Let your dream take root in St. Louis.
Sign up link: https://forms.office.com/r/UNTAZybuX7
The U S Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghanistan. TPS will expire on May 20, 2025, and termination will be effective July 14, 2025.
If you or your family currently have TPS, it is critical to act immediately. After TPS ends, Afghan nationals will no longer have legal protection to stay in the U.S. without risking deportation.
As DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated: “Afghanistan has had an improved security situation, and its stabilizing economy no longer prevent them from returning to their home country ”
“Permitting Afghan nationals to remain temporarily in the United States is contrary to the national interest of the United States.”
While this is the official government assessment, the reality for many Afghans remains complicated.
Delaying action risks losing yourlegal status and the ability to live safely in the U.S.Take steps now, yourfuture depends on it.
Forced return could still place individuals at risk, given ongoing uncertainties and dangers in Afghanistan.
The most effective way to protect your status now is to apply for asylum before your TPS expires. Asylum offers a longer-term pathway to stay and work legally in the U.S., helping you continue to pursue your American dream safely.
If you or someone you know is affected by the TPS termination, reach out right away to your original resettlement agency or to organizations that provide free or low-cost immigration legal services
Many pro bono immigrant services NGOs exist to help Afghans navigate asylum and other legal options if you cannot afford a lawyer.
Delaying action risks losing your legal status and the ability to live safely in the U.S. Take steps now, your future depends on it.
Building Friendships, Fitness, and a Future, Afghan Support Program LaunchesWeeklyYouth
SoccerSessions
The Afghan Support Program has kicked off a powerful new initiative, 10 weeks of youth soccer sessions at TOCA Soccer Center in St. Louis, bringing together 25 Afghan children each week for play, learning, and connection. Held once a week, these soccer sessions offer much more than just a game. With players aged 8 to 16, the sessions are carefully structured by age group on separate fields, allowing youth to develop their soccer skills, build confidence, and stay physically active in a supportive environment.
Soccer is more than just fun; it improves cardiovascular health, motor skills, coordination, teamwork, and discipline. It’s also a powerful tool for emotional wellbeing, giving children a healthy outlet for energy, stress, and self-expression.
In Afghanistan, soccer is a beloved pastime. Whether it’s on playgrounds, in alleys, or at schools, sport has always brought young people together. For many of these participants, who are secondary migrants recently relocated to St. Louis from other U.S. states, soccer is a piece of home. The program not only helps them maintain cultural identity but also builds a foundation for new friendships and lasting bonds in their new community.
But the sessions aren’t just about kids. As children run, kick, and compete, their parents gather on the sidelines, connecting with fellow Afghan families, building friendships of their own, and forming a deeper sense of community.
We’re helping kids adjust, grow, and thrive in their new home while giving parents the chance to feel seen, supported, and connected.
The Afghan Support Program believes that youth engagement and community connection are vital for long-term success These weekly soccer sessions are just one example of how we’re building that vision, step by step, goal by goal. A stronger, more connected Afghan future starts here, on and off the field.
Abbas Karimi’s Risefrom Refugeeto ParalympicSwimmer
Born without arms in Kabul, Afghanistan, Mohammad Abbas Karimi faced countless barriers from the start, social, physical, and political. Yet none of them could drown his dreams Today, he stands not just as a decorated athlete, but as a global symbol of resilience and hope
Abbas’s childhood in Afghanistan was shaped by hardship and discrimination. To protect himself and channel his emotions, he began kickboxing. But it was in the water that he found true freedom. At just 13, he took up swimming and soon won his first national championship in Afghanistan. But as threats from the Taliban escalated, Abbas was forced to flee his home at age 16. His journey led him through Iran and the Zagros Mountains to Turkey, where he lived in refugee camps for four years, training when he could, often with limited access to facilities.
With the help of UNHCR and an American teacher, Abbas was resettled in Portland, Oregon in 2016. Three years later, he moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida to pursue elite-level training. Despite the odds, he became the first refugee athlete to win a medal at the World Para Swimming Championships, taking silver in the 50-meter butterfly in 2017.
PhotoCredit: Ariana News
At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, he carried the flag for the Refugee Paralympic Team and placed 8th in his event. In 2022, he became a U S citizen and joined Team USA, contributing to a gold medal win in the 4x50m medley relay at the World Championships By 2024, he represented the U.S. at the Paris Paralympic Games, winning silver in the mixed freestyle relay.
Abbas is more than an athlete; he is a voice for refugees worldwide. As a UNHCR High Profile Supporter, he uses his platform to show the transformative power of sport. “I believe in myself, but nothing I do is for myself,” he says. “It’sfor all refugees, to inspire and bring hope.” From Kabul’s crowded streets to the world’s biggest stages, Abbas Karimi is swimming not just for medals, but for a message.
Moving to St. Louis offers many benefits, whether you’re new to the city or relocating within it. One of the biggest advantages is affordable living. Despite being a major Midwestern city, St. Louis has a cost of living that is lower than both the Missouri state average and the national average.
Housing is especially affordable, with median home prices significantly below national levels, making it easier for families and individuals to find comfortable, budget-friendly homes Rent prices are also lower than the national average, providing options for those who prefer to rent.
The city boasts a strong job market with opportunities across various industries including aviation, healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, and finance. Major employers like Boeing and several healthcare providers offer a range of positions, making it a promising place for career growth. Access to excellent healthcare is another highlight, with renowned hospitals such as Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children’s Hospital providing top medical services.
For families and students, St Louis is home to several prestigious universities like,
Washington University, University of MissouriSt. Louis, and St. Louis University, offering a wide variety of academic programs and research opportunities. The city is also very walkable with reliable public transportation, including light rail and bus services, making commuting easier without needing a car.
Outdoor lovers will appreciate the many parks, trails, and nature reserves Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, offers plenty of space for hiking, biking, and family outings. The city also features many cultural attractions such as museums, a world-famous zoo, and the iconic Gateway Arch.
Importantly for Muslim residents, St. Louis has several well-established mosques and Islamic centers that serve the community, providing places for worship, education, and community gatherings. These centers help maintain strong cultural and religious ties, supporting newcomers and long-term residents alike.
With its affordability, job opportunities, educational institutions, and welcoming community, St Louis is a great place to call home
economic, and political center Situated in a mountainous valley, Kabul’s strategic location has historically made it a crossroads linking Central and South Asia. Its diverse population includes Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras, and Uzbeks, creating a rich cultural mosaic.
As Afghanistan’s main economic hub, Kabul has seen steady growth since 2007, with an annual increase of 5-6%. The economy is supported by various sectors including government, agriculture, and trade. Despite challenges such as unemployment and poverty, bustling markets reflect the city’s resilience, offering traditional crafts alongside imported goods.
High School, founded in 1903, and the International School of Kabul highlight the city’s educational heritage Kabul hosts several universities including Kabul University and the American University of Afghanistan, offering higher education opportunities to thousands. The increased enrollment of both boys and girls signals a hopeful shift towards greater educational access.
Healthcare in Kabul has also improved significantly over the past twenty years. The city boasts numerous hospitals and clinics, including Daoud Khan Military Hospital and Malalai Maternity Hospital, providing essential medical services to residents. Though challenges remain, the healthcare system continues to expand and adapt Kabul’s dynamic population, growing economy, evolving transport, expanding education, and improving healthcare paint a picture of a city resiliently rebuilding and looking toward a hopeful future.
Transportation in Kabul is dominated by private vehicles, taxis, and motorbikes, which contribute to heavy traffic congestion in the city While major highways connect Kabul to other regions, the public transport system remains underdeveloped. Efforts are underway to improve infrastructure and reduce congestion to meet the demands of its rapidly growing population. s s a
Nations. The graduates showcased their beautifully sewn clothes and products, warmly received by guests.
Many attendees eagerly purchased these handmade items, supporting the women’s work while finding special clothing for Eid, a major joyous occasion in the Muslim community.
Jerry Schlichter, founder of the sewing program, attended the event to congratulate the graduates and personally present their certificates
He encouraged the women to leverage their new skills to launch businesses through the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant, which awards $20,000 to promising startups. “I’m proud to see these women take the courage to participate and create income opportunities for their families,” he said.
community, he explained.
He encouraged all graduates to apply for the Entrepreneurship Grant and assured them of ongoing support. The program will coordinate access to the Afghan Community Center’s facilities and connect women with local repair shops to secure smaller garmentrelated jobs, empowering them to build sustainable businesses.
Looking ahead, a new sewing class will start in mid-June for fresh students eager to learn these valuable skills and begin their own journey toward economic independence.
This celebration marked a hopeful new chapter, where Afghan women preserve their culture and build a brighter future through skill and entrepreneurship.
Raising Afghan Kidswith Pride and Opportunity
Living far from home in a new country can be a challenge for Afghan families, especially when it comes to preserving our language and culture. Keeping the mother tongue alive at home is more than just speaking, it is about passing down our history, values, and identity to the next generation When children grow up speaking their mother tongue, they stay connected to their roots, understand family stories, and develop pride in who they are. This connection helps them build a strong sense of self that lasts a lifetime.
Culture is the heart of our families. Celebrating Afghan traditions, music, food, and holidays together helps children feel a strong sense of belonging and respect for their heritage. These shared experiences teach important values like respect for parents and elders, which is deeply cherished in Afghan culture. When children witness their parents’ dedication to keeping these traditions alive, they learn gratitude and understand the importance of family bonds This foundation builds character and a deep appreciation for where they come from.
At the same time, living in the United States provides many opportunities to expand horizons.
It is essential for both parents and children to build relationships beyond the family, learning from new people, cultures, and ideas. This wider network helps our children grow confident and successful in a diverse society while still honoring where they come from Broadening one’s circle does not mean losing identity; it means gaining strength and new perspectives that enrich life.
Balancing our Afghan identity with life in America might feel like walking a tightrope, but it is also a powerful gift. It gives our children the best of both worlds, the strength of their heritage, and the skills to thrive in their new home. By speaking our mother tongue, practicing our culture, and respecting family, we prepare our children for a future filled with pride, respect, and opportunity.
In this journey, respecting parents and maintaining strong family ties remain foundational At the same time, opening doors to new friendships and experiences enriches our lives and those of our children. Together, these values build a bridge between our past and future, ensuring our culture lives on with pride.
Support your local Afghan community bychoosing toshopwith the inspiring entrepreneursfeatured here!
These Afghan Support Program Grant winners have worked hard to start and grow their businesses right here in the market. By supporting them, you’re not only helping their dreams come true but also strengthening our community’s future. Let’s come together to celebrate and uplift these local businesses, because when they succeed, we all succeed!
To advertise on this page or in other parts of the journal, or if you would like to share your story, a piece of writing about your community, lessons learned, and more, please contact us at sayedis@iistl.org
