Afghan Family Pursues Homeownership in Vermont with New Partnership Support
SHELBURNE, Vt. – Wardak Karimi, 38, and his family fled war-torn Afghanistan, seeking safety and a fresh start in Vermont. Settling in Shelburne, they cherish their new rental home and the vibrant community, but they aspire to own a house to truly call their own.
Wardak and his wife, Nelofer, 34, along with their five children, have faced significant challenges as refugees navigating a housing crisis and unfamiliar systems. They expressed gratitude to the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) for their support in resettlement, securing temporary housing and resources. Learning English and familiarizing themselves with local customs, the Karimis are slowly creating a promising life.
To facilitate homeownership for Afghan refugees, USCRI and the Champlain Housing Trust have formed a partnership aimed at overcoming barriers such as language and financial unfamiliarity. As part of this initiative, the agencies will provide translated resources and introduce Afghan families to homebuyer assistance. The trust’s shared equity program offers a $25,000 interest-free, forgivable loan to help marginalized communities, enabling 31 people to secure affordable housing so far.
Despite their current stability, the Karimis recounted their harrowing escape from Afghanistan following the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021. They left behind a beautiful home in Jalalabad, a memory that lingers. "Even in 100 years, I will not forget that time," Wardak reflected.
With support from local community members, the family has found their footing, demonstrating resilience in their quest for security and belonging in Vermont. "Owning a house would be like being king of the world," Wardak said, humorously expressing their dream of homeownership, facilitated by newfound opportunities and community support.
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Photo credit vtdigger.org
