Afghan Refugee Anita Omary Now Helps Newcomers Thrive in U.S.

When Anita Omary arrived in Connecticut from Afghanistan in March 2023, she was five months pregnant, separated from her husband, and completely alone in a country where she didn't speak the language. The former child protective services manager had left behind her career, her extended family, and everything familiar to escape danger and build a better life.

Depression set in quickly. The weather felt strange, the culture overwhelming, and navigating prenatal care in a foreign language seemed impossible.

Then Omary met Dee, a nurse at her prenatal clinic in West Haven. Dee immediately recognized that Omary was struggling and decided to help.

What started as regular check-ins at the clinic quickly grew into a life-changing friendship. Dee called Omary regularly to make sure she was eating and healthy. She helped her get an air conditioner for her hot room during the summer.

The support didn't stop there. Dee gave Omary driving lessons every weekend, helped her apply for jobs, and coached her through the interview process. With Dee's encouragement, Omary passed her road test on the first try and landed a job as a career development specialist.

When Omary's son Osman was born, Dee spent five days at the hospital by her side. She brought halal food and brushed Omary's hair the way her mother used to. When postpartum pain made it too difficult for Omary to lift the car seat, Dee carried the baby to doctor's appointments.

Omary enrolled at the University of New Haven to pursue her master's degree. She joined the Refugee Storytellers Collective, where she now connects immigrant families with resources and teaches communities how to welcome newcomers.

The Ripple Effect: Omary's experience taught her that welcoming refugees doesn't require grand gestures. She remembers how a simple compliment on her dress or her son from a stranger at the grocery store lifted her spirits during those difficult early days. Access to English classes remains a major barrier for many newcomers, with months-long wait lists common. For mothers without childcare, attending classes or working becomes nearly impossible.

But Omary stresses that everyday kindness matters most. A friendly smile, a warm greeting, or offering to help carry groceries can remind someone they belong. These small acts create the foundation for refugees to not just survive, but truly thrive in their new communities.

"I built my new life, but I didn't do it alone," Omary said. "Community and kindness were my greatest strengths."