This is completely normal, so please don’t question yourself. You can try to think about a positive, which could be being able to support them financially once you settle here in the United States. You could also try to talk to them if you are able to on a weekly or bi-monthly basis, as possible. Finding a community here in the United States may help you too.

Please take a moment to calm down, and don’t worry. Talk with a trusted friend or faith leader; communicate with family back home as you are able on a scheduled basis to check-in with them and make sure they are doing okay.

You are going through a difficult phase, so it is okay to be worried. Write letters to your children; keep a daily or weekly journal with letters to your children that you will share with them when you are able to (even if well in the future). Each morning, say a prayer, a mantra, or hold a vigil for your children who are still in Afghanistan.

Some ways in which you can do this are by having some daily practices in the home (e.g., culture sharing, cooking specific foods); make them fun and uplifting, small daily routines can really stick in the minds of youth over time and become associated with their childhood and beloved traditions. You could also share interesting stories from home to keep those memories alive.

Feeling homesick is completely normal, especially when you move to a new country. You could engage in daily practices and traditions; have a weekly dinner tradition to make your favorite meal; and share with others in your community to feel less homesick. You could also do some of the following:

1. Connect with loved ones: Regularly talk to your family back home. Video calls allow you to see their faces, which can be a big mood booster. Having a set time slot to communicate with your family on a daily basis can promote a sense of hope.
2. Surround yourself with familiar things: look at photos or videos from home, listen to music you enjoyed back home, or cook a traditional dish.
3. Embrace the reality: Accepting that you're currently not home can be tough, but it's the first step to finding peace.
4. Send gifts: Sending gifts that remind them of you can be a thoughtful way to connect.
5. Focus on emotional connection: Remember, a strong emotional bond is more important than physical presence.
6. Plan virtual activities: have meals together online, watch movies using apps like KAST, or play games virtually.
7. Find solace in faith. If you're religious, prayer can be a source of comfort and strength.

Feeling isolated in a new country can happen, but there are many ways in which you can overcome this feeling. Some ways could be by connecting with others from Afghanistan in person or via social media. You could also join free peer support groups led by community-based agencies.

Your feelings are completely normal because you are now in a new country. Some ways in which you could integrate into the American culture could be by attending cultural and community events, if available; connecting with other Afghans who are more established here; and connecting with a faith community to meet others. If in Nashville, reach out to Tennessee Immigrant and Refugees Rights Coalition (TIRRC), Nashville International Center for Empowerment (NICE), or Catholic Charities of Nashville. If in Chicago, you could contact agencies such as, World Relief, Muslim Women Resource Center, Trellus, Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR). Additional things you could do are:

1. Attend summer events like food festivals to experience American cuisine and socialize with locals.
2. Visit museums on free days to explore American history, art, and culture.
3. Make an effort to connect with American friends through social gatherings or community events.
4. Join a local charitable organization that serves vulnerable populations in order to contribute to your community and build connections.
5. Attend lectures or workshops in your area of interest to engage with American thought leaders and intellectuals.
6. Explore religious centers to learn about different faiths and engage in interfaith dialogue.
7. Visit accessible free social places such as parks, libraries, or community centers to meet new people and participate in group activities.
8. Join different campus organizations to meet fellow students and participate in cultural and social events, if you are a student.

It's completely normal to feel this way; many people experience it. Each person has their own way of interacting in conversations. While some find it easier to contribute meaningfully, many of us struggle with it. We often encounter this difficulty when we lack confidence in the spoken language or lack enough familiarity with the other person's culture to fully participate.

Consider taking language classes as a helpful step. Learning how to discuss everyday activities, weather, and cultural topics can boost your confidence in conversations. Additionally, actively listening to others and engaging in discussions about their traditions, customs, and experiences can help to gradually bridge any language or cultural gaps.

Remember, it's perfectly okay to ask questions, especially if you're new to the language or culture. Everyone knows that it takes time to adjust and learn, and others in the group will likely appreciate your willingness to engage and learn. Therefore, don't hesitate to ask questions if something isn't clear to you. This not only helps you gain a better understanding but also shows your interest in learning and participating. You can also use different software to communicate, like Google Translate or Microsoft Translator, or see if there is someone else in the group who can help you with translation.

It's important not to feel embarrassed about sharing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly in very basic English to convey what you mean in the beginning. Gradually, you will master the language.

Chicago has nested Afghans across different ethnic groups. Each ethnic group has its own community, where volunteers assist newly arrived Afghans and organize various events, such as gatherings in the park for a cup of tea, volleyball matches, food festivals, the new year, and Eid celebrations, among others. Volunteers can also help with housing and employment. To have access to this, you only need to join the groups on WhatsApp or Messenger.

1. Newly arrived Afghans can always ask their caseworkers to help them connect with community leaders. A case-worker is assigned to each Afghan family before their arrival into the USA.
2. Newly arrived Afghans can ask Afghans who arrived in Chicago before them and request them to add their names to their desired group. Another option is to ask the community leader if their contact number can be added to a specific group.

Afghan Mutual Association of Chicago
Phone: 773-317-8800

Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)
Phone: (312) 212-1520
Email: info@cairchicago.org
Address: 17 N. State Street, Suite 1500, Chicago, IL 60602
Website: https://www.cairchicago.org/

There are a few ways in which you could adhere to Islamic dietary principles in the United States.

1. Explore Specific Neighborhoods: Devon Avenue in Chicago, is known for its large Middle Eastern and South Asian community, with many restaurants offering halal meat. Look for shops displaying halal certifications.
2. Utilize Online Resources: Websites like Zabihah (https://www.zabihah.com/) and HalalRun (https://halalrun.com/) allow you to search for halal restaurants by location and cuisine.
3. Check Grocery Stores: Many ethnic grocery stores, particularly those in areas with larger Muslim populations, carry halal meat and ingredients. These stores include: Chicago:
   1. Zabiha Chicago or it is also called Farm Supper
      Address: 4742 N Damen Ave., Chicago, IL 60625
   2. YaSeen Zabiha Halal Meat & Grocers
      Address: 2243 W Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60659
   3. Farm City Meat Halal & Grocers
      Address: 2255 W Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60659
   4. Patel Brothers
      Address: 2610 West Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60659
   5. Fresh Farm
      Address: 2626 W Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60659
   Nashville:
   1. Almustafa Market Arabic and African International Food
      Address: 943 Richards Rd., Antioch, TN 37013
   2. Dur Dur Halal Goat Meat, Lamb and Grocery
      Address: 1080 Murfreesboro Pike, Suite A, Nashville, TN 37217
   3. Newroz Market
      Address: 393 Elysian Fields Ct., Nashville, TN 37211
   4. Alryan Market and Restaurant
      Address: 1107 Memorial Blvd., #107, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
   5. Kabul Halal Market
      Address: 5378 Mt. View Rd., Antioch, TN 37013

Learning a new language can be very difficult, so be patient with yourself. You might consider listening to some easy podcasts daily, watching a TV show each day, and trying to connect with others who are working to learn English. If you can have tea with a friend who is also learning English each day, for example, you two can work together. Don't worry about being perfect. Start small, with just "hello" and "how are you?" Every conversation, even the short ones, is a win! Apps like Duolingo make learning English fun.

If you cannot read or write, you can follow these steps:

1. Plan your trip beforehand. If possible, ask someone to write down the bus number or train line you need to take.
2. Ask for help: People at bus stops and train stations are usually friendly and willing to help. You can describe your destination and politely ask which bus or train to take.
3. Look for landmarks: Train stations often have distinct landmarks or features nearby. For example, you could ask for the station "bridge" or "next to the tall blue building."
4. Listen for announcements: Both trains and buses announce upcoming stations. This can help you know when to get off.
5. Let the driver know your destination (or a landmark near it) beforehand, and they will announce when to get off.

1. Before boarding the train, you can get your pass from one of the boarding machines at the station. You can also tap your credit or debit card on the machine to get in.
2. For the bus ride, you have multiple options to pay: pay by cash (you need to have exact cash since the driver will not be able to give you change), get a pass, or pay with your credit or debit card.
3. A more convenient way would be to download the Ventra app. You can create an account that is a reloadable fare card for both trains and buses. You can purchase a Ventra card and add fare value online. The app also gives route suggestions that include which buses or trains you can take to reach your destination.

1. Find the station with recognizable features: Ask for help locating the station closest to your starting point.
2. Look for colored lines: Each train line has a distinct color (e.g., blue line, red line). You can memorize the color associated with your destination or ask someone which line to take.
3. Ask for help buying a Ventra card. Tell them that to ride the train, you'll need a Ventra card. Most stations have staff who can assist you in making purchases and loading money onto the card.
4. Board the train that matches your color line. Look for signs, or ask someone if the platform has the train you need.
5. Listen for announcements: The train will announce upcoming stations. You can also ask other passengers when to get off if they are unsure.

1. Bus stops often have maps: Look for a map with the bus route displayed. People at the stop might also be able to point you in the right direction.
2. Ask for the bus number: Each bus route has a number. If you know the general direction you need to go (e.g., downtown, north side), ask someone for the corresponding bus number.
3. Pay with cash on the bus: You can board most buses with the exact fare in hand (fares are usually displayed on the bus).
4. Request your stop: Let the driver know your destination (or a landmark near it) beforehand, and they will announce when to get off.

Creating a budget can be helpful. Also, shopping at affordable places may be most helpful – some examples are Walmart, Aldi, Marianos, Jerry or Jewel Osco. There are several places in the Devon neighborhood as well where you can shop. If in Nashville, Conexión Americas has some resources for budgeting. Some other strategies could be:

1. Buying in bulk: If you have the space and the means, buying in bulk can save you money on some items.
2. Planning your meals ahead of time: This can help you avoid impulse purchases at the grocery store.
3. Cooking at home: Eating out can be expensive. Cooking at home is a great way to save money on groceries.
4. Housing: Consider getting roommates or moving to a smaller place, if feasible.
5. Transportation: walk, bike, or use public transportation more often.
6. Utilities: unplug unused electronics, turn off lights in unoccupied rooms, and adjust thermostats for seasonal efficiency. Look into switching to a more economical internet or phone plans.
7. Subscriptions: Review your subscriptions (gym, streaming services, etc.) and cancel unused ones.
8. Groceries: Plan meals, utilize grocery store sales and coupons (check apps or websites). Consider buying store-brand items when the quality is comparable.
9. Eating Out: Limit eating out. Prepare meals at home in bulk and freeze portions for convenience. Instead of making daily cafe purchases, brew coffee at home.
10. Entertainment: Take advantage of free or low-cost entertainment options such as libraries, parks, and museums with free admission days. Consider board game nights or potlucks with friends instead of expensive outings.
11. Avoid making impulsive purchases: Creating a list and adhering to it while shopping is highly recommended. Consider minimizing your clothing purchases and getting creative with how you style your existing wardrobe for different occasions.
12. Thrifting: You can find a wide range of quality items at various thrift stores.
13. Social media platform: If you're looking for a convenient way to find affordable items, Facebook Market Place is a great option. It provides a wide range of products at competitive prices.

Chicago:
Below are some resources that you can use.

Tarjimly.org/start: Tarjimly is a volunteer translation app that connects refugees and aid workers with translators.

Afghan Interpreter Hotline (855-685-2998): It provides phone interpretation services in Dari and Pashtu, likely staffed by professional interpreters. This is a good option if you need immediate translation assistance over the phone, especially in situations related to Afghanistan.

Boostlingo (ALTA and Rush Translate): It offers translation services through ALTA and Rush Translate products. It is a company providing translation services, possibly through machine translation or human translators.

Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS): DFSS offers various programs and services to support Chicago residents, including assistance with completing applications for public benefits like Medicaid, food stamps, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). They have staff members who can help you understand and complete the forms in English. Find your local DFSS office here: Chicago Department of Family and Support Services.

The National Immigration Forum: They can serve as a good starting point for finding resources in your area. https://immigrationforum.org/

American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA): AILA is a professional association of immigration lawyers and legal professionals. They offer a directory of immigration lawyers you can consult for legal representation, though their services may not be free. https://www.aila.org/

Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC): CLINIC is a national network of legal service providers affiliated with the Catholic Church. They offer legal representation and advocacy services to immigrants, often with a focus on low-income individuals and families. https://www.cliniclegal.org/

Immigration Advocates Network: This online directory connects immigrants with legal service providers across the United States. You can search by location, language spoken, and type of immigration case.

Your state or local bar association: Many state and local bar associations offer lawyer referral services that can connect you with an immigration attorney. American Bar Association website

Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR): Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights

National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC): National Immigrant Justice Center

Nashville:
The following agencies can either provide assistance or direct you to a more qualified individual:

Catholic Charities:
Phone: (615) 352-3087
Address: 2806 McGavock Pike, Nashville, TN 37214

Nashville International Center for Empowerment:
Phone: (615) 315-9681
Address: 417 Welshwood Dr., #100, Nashville, TN 37211

The Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition:
Phone: (615) 833-0384
Address: 3310 Ezell Rd., Nashville, TN 37211

Conexión Americas:
Phone: (615) 270-9252
Address: 2195 Nolensville Pk., Nashville, TN 37211

Chicago:
Below are some helpful resources:

1. Tarjimly.org/start: Tarjimly is a volunteer translation app that connects refugees and aid workers with translators.
   
   
2. Afghan Interpreter Hotline (855-685-2998): It provides phone interpretation services in Dari and Pashtu, likely staffed by professional interpreters. This is a good option if you need immediate translation assistance over the phone, especially in situations related to Afghanistan.
   
   
3. Boostlingo (ALTA and Rush Translate): It offers translation services through ALTA and Rush Translate products. It is a company providing translation services, possibly through machine translation or human translators. ALTA and Rush may be used for different translation needs (e.g., high accuracy vs. fast turnaround).
   

1. Enroll in a driver's education course: The Illinois Secretary of State must approve the course you take. This is only mandatory for applicants under the age of 21, unless you haven't taken one before. Search online for "Illinois Secretary of State-approved driver's education courses" to find options.
   
   
2. Gather the required documents: such as a birth certificate or passport, a Social Security Card or W-2 Form, proofs of residency (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.).
   
   
3. Apply for a Learner's Permit: Visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in Chicago that offers first-time issuance services. Show your documents, pass a vision test, and pay the fee (around $20). You'll also need to take a written knowledge exam. If you're under 18, your parent or guardian will need to be present to sign a consent form.
   
   
4. Practice driving: Once you have your learner's permit, you can practice driving with a licensed driver over 21 years old. You'll need to keep a log of your driving practice hours.
   
   
5. Apply for your driver's license: After holding your permit for at least nine months (and meeting other requirements like no traffic violations), you can apply for your driver's license. The process is similar to getting your learner's permit, but you'll also need to pass a behind-the-wheel driving test.
   
   

Nashville:
Getting a driver's license in Nashville involves the following steps:

You will apply for a regular (Class D) Driver’s License to be a first time driver in the United States. You will start by applying for a driver’s permit.
https://www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/classd/new-drivers.html

If you are applying for a Regular (Class D) Driver License for the first time and are 18 years old or older, you will first need to apply for an Adult Learner's Permit. To apply for a permit, you will need to provide the required documents outlined below and take a Tennessee Knowledge Test and vision screening at a full-service Driver Services Center:
https://www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/classd.html

Required Documents:
Proof of Citizenship/Lawful Permanent Residency If there has been a name change from the Proof of Citizenship/Lawful Permanent Residency presented, a certified legal document supporting the name change must also be presented. Ex. a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree.

Two Proofs of Tennessee Residency with your name and resident address - NO P.O. BOXES

To Prove Tennessee Residency, Applicants Must Provide the Following:
Two (2) Documents from List A - OR - One (1) Document from List A and One (1) Document from List B

List A - Acceptable Proofs of Residency
- Current Utility Bill – This includes landline telephone, electric, water, gas, and cable bills. A wireless telephone bill is acceptable proof for a Regular Driver’s License. Wireless telephone bills will not be accepted for a Commercial Driver’s License.
- Current Bank Statement: Internet bank statements are acceptable only if taken to the local bank, stamped and dated by the teller as an active account. Checks and checkbook information are NOT acceptable.
- Current Rental/Mortgage Contract or Receipt including the Deed of Sale for property.
- Current employer verification of residence address or letter from employer as long as it is on company letterhead with an original signature. If the employer does not have letterhead, then the signature of the employer must be notarized.
- Current Paycheck/Check Stub, Work ID or Badge – residential address must be included on the badge or document.
- Current Automobile, Life or Health Insurance Policy - Wallet Cards will NOT be accepted.
- Current Driver License/ID issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security to a parent, legal guardian or spouse of applicant.
- Current Tennessee Motor Vehicle Registration or Title
- Current Tennessee Voter Registration Card
- Internal Revenue Service tax reporting W-2 form within last 12 months.
- Receipt for Personal Property or Real Estate Taxes paid within last 12 months.
- In case of a student enrolled in a public or private school in Tennessee, the student may provide a photo student ID and acceptable documentation from the Dean or Bursar’s Office that the student lives on campus.

List B - Acceptable Proofs of Residency
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) issued by the Internal Revenue Service
- Form I-94 issued to the applicant by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service
- Employment Authorization Card (I-766) issued to the applicant by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service
- I-551 was issued to the applicant by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service
- Proof of full Social Security Number: Social Security Card, W-2, payroll check stub, 1099

NOTE: All documents must be originals or certified copies. Photocopies will not be accepted.
NOTE: All documents are subject to verification with the issuing agency or source. Documents subject to further verification may delay the issuance of your license.

You will also have to complete a driver’s test.

All new or returning residents must take a vision screening.

New or returning residents whose out of state license has been expired for more than six months must take the vision screening, Tennessee knowledge test and road skills test.

New residents from other countries must take the vision screening, Tennessee knowledge test and road skills test. New residents from other countries are allowed to keep the license issued by that country.

Tennessee Knowledge Test
To prepare for the Tennessee Knowledge and Road Skills Tests, drivers should study the Comprehensive Driver License Manual: Comprehensive Driver License Manual

Road Skills Test
Regardless of their age, any unlicensed driver visiting a Driver Services Center to take a Road Skills Test, must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21-years-or-older. If an unlicensed driver is not accompanied by a licensed driver, the unlicensed driver will not be allowed to proceed with the test.

Drivers are encouraged to schedule. If you do not make an appointment, you may not be able to take your Road Skills Test at the Driver Services Center.

A good starting point is the school systems’ English as a second language program, because the staff in that office work closely with immigrants on a daily basis. Several community-based agencies also offer English as a second language program.

Metro Nashville Public Schools English Language Learners (ELL) Information:
https://www.mnps.org/learn/academics/english-learners

Illinois and Tennessee adhere to the standard framework common to most U.S. education systems:

a) Early Childhood Education (Optional): Some school districts offer programs like pre-kindergarten, but they are not required.

b) Elementary School (K–5 or 6): This is the foundation of formal education, focusing on core subjects like reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.

c) Middle School (6–8 or 7–8): Students transition to a wider range of subjects, including history, geography, the arts, and electives.

d) High School (9–12): High school prepares students for college or the workforce. Students complete core coursework and electives that align with their chosen path.

a) Most public schools offer after-school programs for elementary and middle school students. These programs may include academic support, enrichment activities, and childcare options.

b) Private Options: Many private after-school programs and extracurricular activities are available outside of the school system. These can focus on sports, arts, music, languages, and other areas of interest.

Students can attend public schools for free. This covers elementary, middle, and high school (K–12). There may be some associated costs for extracurricular activities, field trips, or advanced placement (AP) exams. However, higher education institutions typically charge tuition fees. These can vary depending on:

a) Type of Institution: Public universities and community colleges generally have lower tuition rates compared to private colleges and universities.

b) Residency Status: In-state students typically pay lower tuition fees than out-of-state students.

There are financial aid options like scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to help offset the cost of higher education.

a) Illinois State Board of Education: https://www.isbe.net/

b) Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC): https://www.ic.edu/sfs/fedstateprograms (focuses on financial aid for higher education)

a) Illinois State Board of Education: https://www.isbe.net/

b) Frequently Asked Questions About Kindergarten: https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Kindergarten-Corner.aspx

c) Pell Grant Information (federal need-based grants): https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/grants/pell

d) The U.S. Department of Education website (https://www.ed.gov/) provides a comprehensive overview of the education system, including information on K–12 education, higher education, and special education programs.

e) The United States Department of State specifically designed Education USA (https://educationusa.state.gov/) as a resource for international students interested in studying in the United States. It provides information on the different types of educational institutions and the application process.

f) Websites of national education organizations like the National Education Association (NEA) (https://www.nea.org/) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) (https://www.aft.org/) offer insights into the current state of education and policy issues.

g) Books and Libraries: Public libraries frequently have books and resources about the U.S. education system.

h) Documentaries and Videos: Educational documentaries and videos can provide a visual introduction to the U.S. education system. You can find these on streaming services, online platforms, or libraries.

a) Tennessee Higher Education Commission Financial Aid Information: https://www.tn.gov/thec/learn-about/financial-aid.html

b) Tennessee Promise Financial Aid: https://www.collegefortn.org/tnpromise/

Being a U.S. permanent resident grants you the ability to engage in the following activities:

• a) You have the freedom to live anywhere in the United States and take any job legally offered to you.
• b) Travel Freedom: You can travel internationally and return to the U.S. with a valid green card, as long as you don't stay abroad for extended periods.
• c) Family Sponsorship: You can petition for certain family members to immigrate to the United States (though with limitations compared to citizens).
• d) Path to Citizenship: A green card allows you to eventually apply for U.S. citizenship.
• e) According to the law, you have the same legal rights and protections as U.S. citizens.
• f) Benefits: You may be eligible for certain federal benefits, like Social Security or student loans.

• a) Live and Work Permanently; Travel Freely: You can live and work permanently and travel freely.
• b) Voting and Political Participation: You can vote in federal, state, and local elections and run for office.
• c) Enhanced Job Opportunities: Some government jobs and certain high-level positions require U.S. citizenship.
• d) Sponsoring Family: Citizens have a wider range of family members they can sponsor for immigration, often with faster processing times.
• e) Security and Stability: Citizenship gives you a more permanent and secure status in the U.S. Deportation is not possible unless you commit a serious crime.
• f) No Renewal Hassles: Citizenship is permanent, unlike a green card, which requires renewal every ten years.

This is a great question. We are including some general definitions below that may be helpful.

Parolee: A parolee is a person who, despite not having a visa, is allowed to enter the US for a specific reason and for a limited time. This is usually done for humanitarian reasons or urgent circumstances. https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/humanitarian_parole

SIV (Special Immigrant Visa): A visa granted to certain Afghans or Iraqis who worked for the US government and are at risk of persecution in their home countries. SIV holders are eligible for a green card upon arrival in the US. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/06/16/2020-12344/visas-special-immigrant-visas-us-government-employee-special-immigrant-visas-for-service-abroad

Asylum: Legal protection granted to someone who cannot return to their home country due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Asylum seekers can eventually apply for green card status. https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/refugees-and-asylum/asylum

Green Card (Lawful Permanent Resident): A document that allows someone to live and work permanently in the US. There are various ways to qualify for a green card, including family ties, employment, or refugee/asylum status. https://www.uscis.gov/

Refugee: Someone who has fled their home country due to a well-founded fear of persecution but cannot return for safety reasons. Refugees are typically resettled in other countries through a program run by the US Department of State. Refugees can eventually apply for green card status. https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/refugees-and-asylum/refugees

Additionally, we are including resources below whom you can contact for additional information or for questions around residency. TIRRC and NICE offer support for these services in Nashville. Chicago-specific resources are also included below.

Nashville:
Nashville International Center for Empowerment:
Phone: (615) 315-9681
Address: 417 Welshwood Dr #100, Nashville, TN 37211

Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition:
Phone: (615) 833-0384
Address: 3310 Ezell Rd, Nashville, TN 37211

Chicago:
The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights:
Address: 228 S. Wabash, Suite 800, Chicago, Illinois, 60604
Website: https://www.icirr.org/about

The Chicago Immigrant Rights Clinic:
Address: 1111 East 60th Street, Chicago, Illinois 60637
Phone: 773.702.9494
Website: https://www.law.uchicago.edu/clinics/immigrants

A Social Security Number enables a person to legally apply for a job, open a bank account, pay taxes, get retirement and/or disability benefits, and may offer some survivor benefits if a spouse passes away. You can see more here: https://www.usa.gov/what-is-social-security

A Social Security number (SSN) is a nine-digit number that holds a lot of importance in the United States. It acts like a unique identifier for many purposes; here are some of the key ones:

Social Security Benefits: This is the original purpose of SSNs. Social Security uses your earnings history, linked to your SSN, to calculate your retirement and disability benefits. Your SSN determines your monthly benefit amount when you reach retirement age. Similarly, if you become disabled and qualify for Social Security disability benefits, your SSN is essential for managing those benefits.

Employment and Taxes: Employers use your SSN to verify your work eligibility and report your wages to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This helps you track your earnings history for future Social Security benefits and ensures that you pay the correct amount of taxes. To file your federal and state tax returns each year, you also need your SSN.

Financial Products: Getting a loan, opening a credit card, or investing often requires an SSN. Financial institutions use it to verify your identity and credit history. Financial institutions use your SSN to create a credit report that tracks your borrowing history and repayment habits. Lenders use this information to evaluate your creditworthiness, determine your eligibility for loans, credit cards, and other financial products, and set your interest rates.

Government Benefits: For identification and eligibility purposes, many government programs use your SSN. This includes programs like Medicare (health insurance for seniors), Medicaid (health insurance for low-income individuals), and welfare benefits. Your SSN helps the government verify your identity and entitlement to these programs.