Aaisha’s story: Rebuilding lives through community support

Aaisha, an Afghan refugee, found support in Colchester, Essex, after
fleeing her homeland. With help from Bridgeway Mission through a
Church Urban Fund Refugee Support Small Grant, Aaisha and her family
received vital assistance to rebuild their lives.

"I arrived in August 2021 and the team came and helped me with food deliveries, and also supported my children and husband. It has been very good for me and very helpful. I am very happy.” Bridgeway Mission assisted Aaisha and her family financially and socially, providing “food, clothing, computer access, and friendship”. They supported her children and husband, helping them settle into their new community. Aaisha felt the support was personal and warm, saying, “It feels like a family.”

“I asked the coordinator if there could be some sports available for women. She organised for a sports coach to come and do some sessions for us and it was really good. It’s really good for your health.”

The project has supported 80 Afghan refugee women, offering activities like pamper sessions and social gatherings that reduce loneliness and isolation. These initiatives have helped Aaisha feel more settled in Colchester, strengthened her sense of community, and provided opportunities for social interaction and integration. Aaisha is eager to continue her involvement with Bridgeway Mission. She expressed a desire to stay in Colchester, stating, “I would like to keep coming to this project as I really like it. I would like to stay in Colchester; I like it here.”

Aaisha’s story highlights the power of community support and resilience in overcoming displacement challenges. With Bridgeway Mission’s help, Aaisha and her family have found a sense of belonging and hope for the future, inspiring others to face adversity with courage and determination.