Challenges - Dealing with
the problems that arise


Working with refugees can mean spending a lot of time at the hospital or emergency room.  Many of the refugees have health care issues upon arrival after years (an entire lifetime for the children) of malnutrition and access to only basic medical care.  Despite some initial fears from unfamiliarity with medical practices, the Somali Bantu are glad to know that they and their families can be made healthy. 
We try to provide as much instruction to the Bantu as possible, especially when problems arise.  Here we are having a special meeting at an apartment complex where a number of families were staying and having some safety concerns. The apartment and maintenance staff were introduced to the families and the local police discussed safety and how to report problems.