He is glad he can welcome Afghans to safety after they fled Taliban takeover.
Women and children in their homeland worry about being kidnapped, and some are afraid to leave their homes for food.
“So far, we have welcomed 17 Afghan parolees, and this is humanitarian parolee status, and we are expecting 17 more to arrive this coming week,” said Devetak. “They have a two-year humanitarian parole, and then in the meantime, they have to apply for asylum to adjust their status.”
In the meantime, Devetak and seven other employees at the community center are working around the clock to help Afghans and other people who need their services.
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He gave News 3 a tour of the building and the resources they’re able to provide, one of which is help finding jobs.
They also have caseworkers.
“A case manager is someone who walks them through all the steps from airport reception to self-sufficiency,” said Devetak. “Orientations about the life in the United States about the U.S. laws. We help them apply for various benefits that they’re eligible for, for instance, the food stamps, Medicaid, public cash assistance.”
ACC also provides essential items that have been donated from people and businesses around the community.
“As you can see we have things from cleaning supplies to towels to sheets, comforters,” said Devetak.
But the biggest challenge right now is housing in the Las Vegas valley.
They’ve already placed some Afghans who recently arrived into apartments. But they still need more options.
“We had to place some in Airbnb arrangements, which is temporary,” said Devetak. “We’re also working very closely with the governor’s Office for New Americans, who have been very helpful and working closely to find other housing options.”
How is it paid for?
“We received funding from the federal government,” said Devetak.
They also get a one-time stipend from the ACC to help with expenses for up to 90 days.
Devetak says his agency has committed to assisting 100 clients through the program and is hoping to increase the number to 250.
Local agencies help Afghans in Las Vegas fleeing Taliban rule | KSNV (news3lv.com)