MILWAUKEE — Back in 2021, Wisconsin took in thousands of refugees from Afghanistan, in the wake of the U.S. military’s withdrawal from the country, and the Taliban re-establishing control.
Qadir Hotak was one of the many refugees who had to evacuate. He first made his way to New Jersey. After a year there, he came to Milwaukee to be with his family.
For the past two years, Hotak has been working with Hunger Task Force.
“I was really excited that I was able to get this position and be someone to provide help and stability to the refugees,” Hotak said.
Hotak works at the Hunger Task Force’s Robles FoodShare Resource Center on Milwaukee’s south side. As a part of his job, he is able to help refugees and community members apply for, and obtain, FoodShare benefits.
“It’s going to be a completely new culture and language for you and it’s going to be hard to navigate your life as a new refugee,” he said.
Hotak knows firsthand how hard it is to learn a new language and culture, as well as navigate the federal programs that are available to help start a new life. He said it’s one of the many reasons he works with the Hunger Task Force, so he can help others.
He is the only FoodShare advocate of Afghan descent. He speaks the two official languages of Afghanistan, as well as English. This allows him to translate and help more local refugees who are in need of assistance.
“It makes you feel so proud, because I have been in the same situation,” Hotak said. “Someone helped me. Now, I am understanding that I am someone helping them, and navigating them through the program. I’m really proud of myself that I am bringing some changes in someone’s life.”
Hotak said he’s inspired to try and help more people every day.
“There is nothing better than helping someone,” he said.
He has found a way to give back to others who share a similar story to his.