A statement like “They need help with very basic things, like how to use a can opener” is instructive on the challenges of learning things that are very basic in America, but in actuality are very different from how much of the world lives.
A couple other volunteers visited the Kasongo family this week. As we coordinate helping them among several volunteers, we share with one another on success and needs. A few excerpts give an idea on where basic help is needed for a family that arrived in the US less than 4 weeks ago:
I was really impressed with how well the girls can read in English. They start school on Wednesday, but still have no coats! <it’s winter in Utah – snow!> …. I helped out Mama Kasongo and the the older girls in the kitchen to understand an American kitchen a little better. They needed help with very basic things, like how to use the can opener and how to follow the directions on the food labels. Their pantry is stocked with non-perishables, but they have no idea what everything is and how to prepare it. So we made brownies and Kool-aid and I talked them through how to make some other things and what things are. They could probably use more help in that regards, so just ask if they have any questions about the kitchen and food. I don’t think they have been to the grocery store on their own yet and could use some confidence with the bus system.
Another volunteer wrote:
I took Papa and Mama Kasongo to the bus stop, and tried my best to show them how it works. The rest of the time I was explaining how to use google maps …. they need practice ?Anybody taking them on a field trip?
So, lots of very basic things can be very challenging in a new culture, new environment, and with a very limited understanding of English. Volunteering to teach and help with basic things such as these requires no special preparation or knowledge beyond being familiar with living in America. It’s exciting to help.