Countless families have fled the worsening humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan in a desperate search for safety and dignity. For Heideri Seyed Hasan and his wife, Hossirni Salehe, the journey led them from a refugee camp in Thailand to a new life in Texas, USA, in 2023. While grateful for their safety, the high cost of living meant that Heideri’s single income was not enough to support the family. Hossirni, a skilled hairdresser, found her path to employment blocked by language barriers and the prohibitive cost of licensing and training, leaving her unable to contribute financially despite her desire to do so.
A Salon of Hope, Built by Community
Seeing the family’s predicament, Tzu Chi volunteer Jennifer An (梁明嬋) was determined to help Hossirni use her talents to improve their situation. She envisioned a small, home-based hair salon and began rallying support from the community. The response was a testament to the power of collective goodwill.
Laura Lee (梁美娥), a Vietnamese-Chinese hairdresser who had also received assistance from Tzu Chi’s food distributions, understood the family’s struggle. She offered her own set of high-quality, professional scissors for a fraction of their price. "I have ten pairs, each one a carefully selected treasure," Laura explained. "I know how hard it is to start over in a new country. Giving these scissors to someone who needs them to build a better life has more meaning than just keeping them in storage." For Laura, helping others brings a peace of mind that money cannot buy.
The support continued to grow. Volunteer Shiou-Bih Yang (楊修碧) provided a functional, adjustable chair perfect for a small space, while Lousie Lee (李秀麥) contributed funds for other necessary supplies. The community was building more than just a salon; they were building a foundation of hope.
LEFT: Laura Lee (right) and Jennifer An (left) brought a professional hairdressing kit for Hossirni, knowing firsthand the struggles of starting anew in a foreign country. RIGHT: Lousie Lee (left), who provided funds for supplies, takes a seat to give Hossirni (right) an opportunity to practice her hairdressing skills. | Photos: Jin-Hung Yeh
The Ripple Effect of Kindness
The assistance extended beyond the salon. Observing the family’s broader needs, Jennifer ensured they had what they needed to settle in. When she learned their daughter, Oumlbanin, lacked school supplies, she procured a backpack, a desk, shoes, and clothes for her. Volunteer Alice Situ donated a computer, reflecting on her own journey. "If you had asked me in the past, I would have been reluctant to give things away," Alice admitted. "But I realized that helping someone in need is far more valuable. When we first came here, we had nothing and didn't know the language. A little help from someone made a huge difference."
This spirit of giving was shared by many. Mary Tsao (何鞠), a volunteer nearing eighty, drove over an hour to donate jewelry from her former business and freshly washed blankets. "To be able to give to others is the most meaningful thing," she said. "When you give, you feel a happiness that is profound and comforting."
Jennifer also noticed Hossirni’s talent for sewing—evident in the curtains she had made for their home. She brought her a sewing machine, opening another door for potential income through alteration work, and even provided potted plants to help beautify their new home.
From Receiving to Giving Back
Over the past year, this consistent and thoughtful care has had a deep impact on the Heideri family. "She is a good woman," Hossirni said of Jennifer, her voice filled with gratitude. "She has helped us so much. She is kind, gentle, and always knows how to make someone smile."
This kindness has inspired the next generation. Oumlbanin now joins the volunteers at community fruit and vegetable distributions, eager to pay the kindness forward. "It brings me joy to help others," she shared. "My parents and my school have always taught me that we must help one another. It is a good thing to do."
The story of the Heideri family is a powerful example of how a community, led by a network of compassionate women, can help newcomers not just survive, but thrive. By providing tailored, practical support, they have helped a family plant new roots in a foreign land, creating a cycle of goodness that continues to spread.
Written by Jin-Hung Yeh (葉晉宏) and Hsiu-Lien Chu (朱秀蓮)
Source: 德州分會凝聚慈悲女力 照顧阿富汗新住民家庭
