Religious congregations in Durham, North Carolina, have stepped in to support Afghan refugee women after major cuts to US refugee services forced a community sewing program to shut down its original structure.
The Refugee Community Partnership, which previously ran a sewing circle for Afghan women resettled in the Triangle region, lost funding and staff after broad reductions to refugee admissions and support services. The cuts affected key parts of the program, including transport for women who cannot drive and childcare for their young children.
In response, two local faith groups — the Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship and Judea Reform Congregation — partnered to revive the initiative. Volunteers raised funds, organised transport, arranged childcare, and secured sewing machines for participants. They also brought in instructors and translators to help the women improve both sewing and English language skills.
The weekly sessions, titled “Stitching for Hope,” have also become a social space for Afghan women who often face isolation after resettlement. Organisers say the goal is as much about community-building as it is about vocational training.
Participants, many of whom arrived in the United States after the 2021 evacuation from Afghanistan, used the programme to sew traditional clothing and practice skills they hope could eventually help them earn income. The final class included a shared meal and informal celebrations between the women and volunteers.
Organisers say they are now planning to expand the programme, potentially doubling participation and exploring ways for the women to sell handmade items in local markets.
The initiative highlights how community and religious organisations are increasingly stepping in to support refugees amid shifting federal immigration and resettlement policies in the United States.
