A New Chapter: Zuleika’s Journey of Hope

A Somali refugee, Zuleika, had lived in the Dadaab Refugee Camp in Kenya since the age of 12. After more than two decades in limbo, Zuleika arrived in Fort Wayne in 2024, with hope in her heart and her three children by her side. 

Initially staying with a relative, unforeseen challenges made stable housing urgent. Catholic Charities’ Refugee Support Services (RSS) quickly helped her secure a permanent home and began walking with her through resettlement. Her case manager enrolled the children in school, applied for benefits, and secured vital documents. Determined to work and be independent, Zuleika joined our Job Readiness Class and received Cultural Orientation, which reviews transportation, healthcare, budgeting, and U.S. laws.

Though her first job application was unsuccessful, she persisted—completing six weeks of training, earning her learner’s permit, and continuing job searches. A few months later, she got an interview,and through Catholic Charities, received support with transportation and screenings. Zuleika began full-time work two weeks later. 

Balancing parenting with adjustment to a new culture was challenging. One afternoon, her case manager helped plant a vegetable garden in her backyard, where Zuleika shared her hopes of driving and concerns about childcare. The next day, our team connected her with Brightpoint childcare resources and planned for driving lessons. In June, with budgeting support, she discovered her hard work gave her a small monthly surplus—laying a foundation for long-term stability.

Zuleika’s journey is far from over, but today she has steady employment, secure housing, and growing independence. We are proud to walk alongside her—and grateful to those who make stories like hers possible.