Catholic Charities Helps Afghan Refugees Find Work In Tulsa

More than 800 Afghan refugees have resettled in Tulsa and are finding jobs.

Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma said 14 Afghan refugees are working at Ascension Saint John through a contractor.

The refugees are trained by someone who knows what they are going through.

Some of the women working at Ascension St. John were among the thousands who crowded Kabul International Airport in 2021, as everyone was trying to flee the Taliban during chaos.

Now, some are stepping out of their comfort zones.

"Different culture, different people and different language, and it is too hard, but I really appreciate them, that they work here, and they support their family,” said Farima Rahimi, an interpreter who is contracted by Catholic Charities.

Seven men and seven women work at Ascension St. John through Touchpoint Solutions, a contractor.

Rahimi helped train the women in housekeeping. Most of them had never worked outside the home.

"They all are so happy to work here," said Rahimi.

Rahimi said she is also glad to call Tulsa home but does not forget how far she has come.

"It has been a year and a half that I've come here,” said Rahimi. “I was a reporter in Afghanistan, and I have a YouTube Channel, and I come to USA with my colleagues and my boss."

Rahimi is adjusting well, with a large following on Instagram, YouTube and Tik Tok. Most importantly, she is trying to empower other Afghan refugees.

"That feels great, and I'm so thankful that I can help my people,” said Rahimi.

Catholic Charities has helped resettle 1,800 Afghan refugees throughout Oklahoma. If you would like to volunteer or donate, click here for more information.