Afghan war refugees empowered to grow familiar foods - Land-Grant Impacts

hands planting in soil

Afghan war refugees empowered to grow familiar foods

Food Security, Story Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Michigan, Michigan State University, North Central, Urban Agriculture

For Afghans resettling in the United States because of war in their country, the transition can become even more difficult as they must become accustomed to different foods. Michigan State University Extension found a way to help them grow some of the culturally important foods for their holidays and family gatherings.

Food banks in the Lansing area were supplied container garden kits that included pots, soil and the option to select seeds, herbs and flowers relevant to their homeland. Instructions for how to use and care for the plants were translated into Pashto, a language commonly spoken in Afghanistan.

For those trying to assimilate into a new culture, the connection to familiar foods was an emotional surprise and comfort.

View the full statement on the NIDB.

Project supported by Smith-Lever (3b&c) funds.

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