A Christian organization based in Dallas is preparing for the arrival of refugees from Afghanistan. Gateway of Grace Ministries is planning to hold a prayer service Friday evening.
Gateway of Grace has previously worked with refugees from other countries. Samira Page, the organization's founder, says they are providing access to health care, food and furniture as well as counseling, school enrollment and help finding jobs.
"These families have experienced trauma. They need friends. They need people who can come alongside them," Page says.
Page says families trying to escape violence in Afghanistan have been split up, with some spouses or children coming to the United States while other members of the same family remain in Kabul.
"We hear these stories over and over again," she says. "The desperation of these people to get out of Afghanistan is just incredible and hard to watch."
The group, Refugee Services of Texas, expects 324 refugees to be brought to Fort Bliss in El Paso. After background checks and security screenings, their applications for special immigrant visas will be reviewed and they will be able to resettle in Texas.
Friday evening, Gateway of Grace plans a virtual prayer service in support of Afghan refugees. Page says they will also pray for Cuba, Haiti and Iran.
"We know that when all else fails and when we face situations that we really can't impact as individuals in a systemic way, the best thing is to pray," she says.
The service is taking place online at 6:30. Click here for more information. (Meeting ID: 830 1853 1908)
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