Viwida USA believes in building a better world for all women and families. This includes those who have recently immigrated. If you have come to the United States in pursuit of a better life for yourself and your family, having the right resources can provide a sense of empowerment. They can even transform you into a leader within your new community. With this in mind, we’ve gathered the following information to help guide your transition.
Keep Strong Ties with Family Back Home
Feeling comfortable in your new community is essential during this transition, but it also helps to stay close with loved ones back home. Thankfully, there are a few online tools and services that can make this simple for new immigrants.
First, find a reliable way to keep in touch with your loved ones. These days, that means getting a cell phone with a plan that includes international calling and texts. You could also look into free apps that let you chat and talk via WiFi. Of course, a time will come when you want to have your family visit. Organizing this trip for your loved ones requires a few crucial steps, like checking for affordable flights and current visa requirements. Note, your family members will need certain documents and forms completed to be approved for entry.
In addition to staying close across the miles, you may wish to send money home to provide support. If you’ve never done this before, know that sending cash through the mail presents many risks. To avoid lost or stolen money, opt instead for a transfer service. Also known as remittance services, transfers move money around the world quickly and efficiently. For example, if you plan to send money home to family in India, you want them to have easy access to these funds. When you use a service like Remitly, you’re guaranteed a safe transfer that fits your timeline, great exchange rates, and you won’t ever pay more than $3.99 in fees.
Build Bonds With a New Community
Having the mutual support with your family can make your move to the U.S. a little less stressful. At the same time, you can start taking steps to help you feel at home and connected in your new community. If you plan to become a U.S. citizen, start by looking for the nearest English or citizenship classes. These courses are specifically designed to help recent immigrants learn the language and skills they need to adapt to their new community.
You can also connect with locals through volunteer work. Getting involved with nonprofit organizations like Viwida USA offers a powerful and positive way to give back while getting to know others in your community. You can also use online resources to find other volunteer opportunities.
If you feel comfortable doing so, reach out to the people who live around you. It is perfectly acceptable in the United States to strike up a conversation with new neighbors while you are out and about. Be mindful of whether your neighbors seem like they’re in a hurry or busy before doing so. If you catch someone rushing off to work, you may inadvertently experience an abrupt response. You could also host a backyard get-together and invite your neighbors. This is a great way to enjoy relaxed conversations.
Moving to the United States can be tough. You can make your experience as an immigrant easier by first establishing strong connections to loved ones back home and then building connections with people in your new community and neighborhood. You may even be able to find government programs and nonprofit organizations that can help with various aspects of your experience.
For women, girls, and families in need, the resources and services provided by Viwida USA can be a source of empowerment and support as they settle into a new life in this country. Get in touch to make a tax-deductible donation, get support, and more.
Photo Credit: Pexels
by our partner – Amy Collett amy.collett@bizwell.org