Supporting Afghan Parolees in Louisville

Since August, Greater Louisville has welcomed over 180 individuals from Afghanistan. These individuals and families are known as parolees, meaning they were given entrance to the United States on a temporary basis because of humanitarian reasons. We know most fled a dangerous situation in their country and left with little to no belongings. JFCS has coordinated efforts with other local organizations to ensure these families are supported, both in the short- and long-term.  

Two families of students in our Pledge 13 Program assembled 50 bags of personal care items and cleaning supplies to support the Afghan parolees. Students from Louisville Beit Sefer Yachad Hebrew School made welcome cards to include in the bags, and we included contact information to access our services. The bags were delivered to Kentucky Refugee Ministries, where they will be distributed to families as they settle into housing. 

The resettlement agencies have been referring new Afghan parolees to JFCS to help access our food pantry and receive case management. We are connecting these families with resources for housing, legal assistance and other supportive services. When individuals are ready to find work, JFCS will be there to support those efforts for people wishing to return to their previous profession or find a new career in the U.S.  

Every day we work to expand possibilities for refugee and immigrant families. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact services@jfcslouisville.org.