Habiba’s first day in Minnesota was exciting, showing her one and three-year-old children snow for the first time. Leaving her husband behind in Kenya until they are approved to be reunited in the U.S., she was essentially now a single mom.
Her excitement soon dwindled to despair, as each day passed while caring for two small children in a new land on her own. Even walking to the grocery store felt overwhelming.
It was a really shocking cultural difference.
“It was really tough to walk to the grocery store with two strollers, then having to push them back filled with grocery bags,” said Habiba.
At the airport Habiba’s case manager from Arrive Ministries introduced her to a team of volunteers from Crossroads Church who offered to walk alongside her family during their first year in Minnesota. Habiba was cautious at first.
I was alone with my kids, I felt lonely and confused and I didn’t know what to do. These families asked if they could help me as part of their family,” said Habiba.
The team stepped in to assist her in navigating each new day. Every aspect of Habiba’s life: living arrangements, finances, medical care, employment, transportation, social engagements were touched by this team through prayer and practical support.
The team, in return, fell in love with this small Ethiopian family.
“She is very smart, capable, fun to be around, and funny, she’s a gracious host,” said Dawn, a volunteer.
If grocery shopping in the winter was challenge number one, imagine the whole host of logistical barriers Habiba had to overcome in finding a job, childcare, and transportation to both places. Dawn said the team worried a lot and prayed even more, knowing Habiba’s stress was affecting her sleep and appetite.
When Habiba found herself a custodial job next to a childcare center that offered a shuttle for their employees, the group was in awe of God’s provision.
“We all felt like it was a God-sized miracle, Habiba recognizes God in her story in a big way,” said Dawn.
Habiba also recognized the goodness in her new friends.
There is nothing they didn’t do. I have felt more cared for, supported, loved, respected, and accepted in my one year in Minnesota than I ever felt during my decade living in Kenya,” said Habiba.
Habiba is proud of herself to have gotten to a place of self-sufficiency within one year, but mostly her boasting focuses on her new friends.
When I think of what I have received from these friends of mine, it is beyond my ability to express how amazing they have been at easing my transition.”
“They are so good. They have been so good. From the beginning they started checking in on me, discussing different challenges or confusions, and told me I could text or call them whenever. They invited me to their homes and to have fun and I felt a part of their family. They are always available whenever I need them,” said Habiba.
