World Relief Seattle helps displaced people start a new life in the Pacific Northwest. These are some of their stories, and the stories of volunteers who have made a difference.

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The Agony of Separation

When 4-year-old Mohammed thinks about his mom, tears roll down his cheeks.

He hasn’t seen her for months – and might not see her again for years.

Born in the grim Dadaab refugee camp in Kenya, Mohammed came to the United States last summer with his dad, his brother and a cousin.

But his mom and sisters were left behind.  Caught in red tape, they have to wait until they receive approval to join the others in Seattle.

It’s all too much for Mohammed.  He clings to his dad and cries.  “I want to see mom,” he sobs.  “Take me to the airport.”

Separation from loved ones is a heartbreak many refugees face in America.

Mohammed’s father, Abdirahman, is on the edge of despair.  His wife is expecting another child.  But he won’t be able to hold his new son or daughter.

“I’m thinking about them all the time,” he says.  “When I’m making dinner, I think about my wife and children in Kenya who have very little food, and I find myself crying.”

Abdirahman plays soccer to help block out the pain.  He coaches a team of fellow Somali Bantu refugees.  On the soccer field, at least, his mind is not consumed by thoughts of those left behind.

World Relief is a lifeline for Mohammed and Abdirahman – finding them an apartment, enrolling Mohammed and his brother in school, and helping them cope with the culture shock.  World Relief staff and volunteers are a positive Christian influence in the lives of this Muslim family – a family that needs to know people care at this stressful time. 

Says Abdirahman: “We’re in good hands.”

World Relief, along with our team of volunteers and donors, helped over 600 refugees begin new lives last year in the Puget Sound area.