Iowa welcomes Ukrainian refugees but faces work permit expiration crisis
- In 2023, many Ukrainians fled their country and found refuge in Iowa, where community support has been significant.
- Angela Boelens has been actively involved in helping refugees secure housing and jobs, creating the Iowa Nice organization for this purpose.
- As work permits expire and policies shift, Ukrainian refugees face an uncertain future regarding their ability to stay and work in the U.S.
In 2023, many Ukrainians, including Liana Avetisian and her family, fled their war-torn country and settled in the United States, specifically in DeWitt, Iowa. The town, known as the Crossroads to Opportunity, has welcomed over 75 Ukrainian refugees, showcasing the community's commitment to supporting those in need. Angela Boelens, a key figure in this movement, has been instrumental in assisting refugees with essential resources like housing and job placements. Her endeavors were further strengthened by the creation of an organization called Iowa Nice, aimed at addressing the needs of these newcomers. The resettlement has occurred amid a workforce shortage in Iowa, with local employers seeking reliable workers. Many refugees, including Avetisian, found jobs in various industries, despite encountering challenges due to the lack of previous experience in those fields. Sam Heer, a local employer, emphasized the dedication and work ethic exhibited by refugees, stating that finding individuals who meet the local job requirements is essential and challenging. Heer employed Avetisian and her family members before their two-year work permits were set to expire. While European countries have moved to extend work permits for Ukrainian refugees, significant policy contrasts exist in the U.S. Following decisions from the Trump administration, immigration applications from Ukrainian migrants, among others, have been paused. This change has left many refugees in uncertain situations regarding the continuation of their work permits. Boelens pointed out that this evolving crisis leaves many refugees in limbo as they seek stability in their new home, with a growing number of work permits soon set to expire. Returning to their home country poses immense risks, as acknowledged by Avetisian, who shared haunting experiences from her mother, still in Ukraine, sending videos of ongoing bombings. The persistence of violence in Ukraine shapes the dilemma faced by many refugees; although they may not be forcibly required to leave the U.S., the expiration of work permits could render them unable to sustain a living in the country they sought refuge, plunging them back into uncertainty which they desperately aimed to escape.