The Trump administration’s freeze on federal funds for refugee assistance programs in Vermont has caused confusion and panic among newly arrived refugees. These refugees, who often arrive with nothing, rely on these funds for food, rent, and other basic needs. The move to halt refugee admissions and stop reception and placement payments has left many families without resources to survive.
After facing backlash, the Trump administration rescinded its order, but the reception and placement funding for refugees in Vermont remains frozen. This has left 59 recently arrived families in a precarious situation. Refugee organizations in Vermont are still struggling to access federal funds to support their operations.
In a recent podcast episode of The Vermont Conversation with David Goodman, Molly Gray, Yassin Hashimi, and Sonali Samarasinghe discussed the challenges faced by refugees in Vermont. They highlighted the systematic abandonment of Afghan allies and refugees, many of whom have settled in Vermont following the collapse of the U.S.-backed government in Afghanistan in 2021.
Yassin Hashimi, a former U.S. Embassy project worker in Kabul, shared his personal struggles with the freeze on refugee programs, which has left his parents stuck in Pakistan. Despite the challenges, Hashimi remains optimistic and emphasized the importance of continuing to fight for what is right. Vermont refugee organizations are working hard to support these vulnerable populations and are grateful for the generosity of Vermonters.
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