The federally funded Matching Grant (MG) program helps refugees achieve economic self-sufficiency within 240 days of arriving in the USA. It provides support for housing, cash assistance, and job placement. This year, Denver IRC’s MG program proudly achieved a 93.88% self-sufficiency rate, ranking second in the IRC’s Resettlement, Asylum, and Integration (RAI) network. Out of 245 clients, 230 reached self-sufficiency within the specified timeframe.

Meet Murtaza Mohammad Hossain, a resilient beneficiary of this life-changing program. His journey is a testament to hope, perseverance, and the impact of compassionate support. Murtaza’s story begins in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Due to the political turmoil, he and his family were forced to flee, eventually finding refuge in Malaysia for nearly a decade while awaiting the resolution of their refugee case. Life as a refugee was challenging, but Murtaza never lost hope.

In October 2021, Murtaza and his family arrived in Los Angeles and then Denver, seeking a fresh start in the United States. Despite the new culture and not knowing anyone, Murtaza faced his challenges head-on. He already spoke English, thanks to his time in Malaysia, which eased his transition slightly.

However, finding a job was not easy for Murtaza. He applied to over 50 positions outside of the IRC before realizing the critical importance of having a Social Security Number (SSN). Fortunately, Zahra Ibrahim, an Employment Specialist from the IRC in Denver, stepped in to help guide him through the process. After a month-long wait and numerous frustrating bus rides, Murtaza finally obtained the much-needed SSN card. Soon after, Murtaza landed a job opportunity where he impressed the supervisors, one American and one Afghan. Just one week later, Murtaza was offered the job!

Murtaza began his new job at the hotel, and with the support of his understanding boss and friendly colleagues, he quickly adjusted to his role. The first month was tough due to the long, two-hour commute each way. His shift ended at 10:00 PM each night, and the journey home was particularly daunting, often exposing him to late-night dangers. He says:

“My wife was so worried. These were not good places to be waiting around late at night ... waiting for the bus.” 

Still, his determination to build a new life in America kept him going.

During this time, Bilal Hamedi, Employment Services Coordinator at the IRC in Denver contacted Murtaza, suggesting he take his driver’s license test. 

“I couldn’t say why- not yet - but there was some urgency to it,” 

explains Bilal.

While Murtaza was eager to get his driver’s license, there were more hurdles: securing an appointment that fit his work schedule and the hours spent on buses to get to the Social Security office. It was a frustrating experience, but after a month of numerous trips and tremendous effort, he finally secured his driving permit and license. 

The very next day, Bilal called with the good news:

“I have a car for you! Are you interested?”

Bilal shared excitedly. Murtaza was to be the recipient of a donated car! 

Everything changed from that moment on. Receiving a car transformed Murtaza's life, significantly reducing his commute time and greatly enhancing his family's quality of life. 

 “A car can have a big impact on someone's life,” 

says Bilal.

 “While the car's value may only be around $3,000, the accessibility and opportunities it creates are limitless.”

Murtaza would no longer have to spend over four hours a day commuting to work - precious time that could have been spent with his wife and three-year-old son. They would no longer need to take lengthy bus rides or walks to get basic essentials like groceries and items for their child. Murtaza recalls:

“The first thing I did was make a trip to Costco for groceries. This was a luxury compared to how it used to be for us.”

Murtaza and his family are gradually settling in, creating a cozy and welcoming home for their 3-year-old son. With a new level of independence, they are managing daily life in a completely different way. Despite missing family and friends in Malaysia and Afghanistan, Murtaza remains hopeful about the future. He is looking forward to enrolling his child in preschool and is dedicated to taking life in America step by step, focusing on his family's happiness and well-being.

Thinking about donating a car to IRC Denver? The process is simple!

  1. Initial Contact: Email us at [email protected] and express your interest in donating your car.
  2. Assessment: Our team will arrange for the car's delivery and conduct necessary checks, including the emission certificate. We will identify any required repairs to ensure the car is in good condition before passing it on to a refugee.
  3. Repairs: We will provide a detailed report outlining any necessary repairs. Once these repairs are completed, the car is ready for donation.
  4. Transfer of Ownership: The donor transfers the car’s ownership to IRC Denver. After that, IRC will transfer the title to a refugee client, giving them the freedom and mobility they need for a fresh start.

Your generous donation can unlock a world of opportunities for refugees. It provides easier access to employment, enabling them to take on jobs that may be otherwise inaccessible due to public transport limitations. Additionally, it allows them to transport children to school, attend medical appointments without stress, and enjoy the independence to participate fully in community activities.

Written by IRC in Denver intern Mariam Naibi.

Edited by IRC in Denver Development & Engagement Manager Hanna Simmons.