Blog

Best Books for Your Child at the Public Library

Reading is one of the most important skills a child can learn, and public libraries offer many wonderful books to help children grow into strong readers. Starting early is the key. Experts say that reading aloud to babies, even in their first months, can build the foundation for future success. Many libraries also provide “Lit Kits” — sets that include […]

Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant Application Round 9

The Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant is now open Deadline: October 26, 2025 The Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant supports eligible Afghan entrepreneurs in St. Louis who arrived in the U.S. after August 2021 and are starting or growing small businesses. Applicants must have a valid business license or LLC, EIN, and financial statement. Eligibility: Application Requirements: For any questions or additional information about […]

What Do Public Libraries Offer? Exploring the Many Free Services at Your Local Library

Public libraries are more than just places to borrow books. They are welcoming community centers that offer many free services to help people of all ages. If English is your second language, you will find that libraries are great places to learn, connect, and grow. Here are some of the helpful things public libraries offer. Many libraries offer job search […]

What Your Parents Wish You Knew!

Your parents might not speak English perfectly or know every new trend. They may not always understand how things work here like you do. But what they do have is something priceless, their love, their hard work, and their experience. They’ve made many sacrifices to give you a chance at a better life.

Facts about Housing in St. Louis you Might not Know

Facts about Housing in St. Louis you Might not Know Afghan Support Program attempts to assist Afghan families willing to relocate to St. Louis. But how? The International Institute of St. Louis (IISTL) helps find housing for new arrivals. Here we explore the process more deeply. Basically, there are two main sources for finding houses. IISTL has expanded its network […]

New Paths, Big Dreams: Meet Winners of the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant

New Paths, Big Dreams: Meet Winners of the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant For many Afghan newcomers, starting over in the United States has meant learning a new language, navigating new systems, and rebuilding careers from scratch. Yet amid these challenges, Afghan entrepreneurs in St. Louis are proving that dreams can not only survive but thrive – even far from home. Two […]

Starting a Business in St. Louis: The Journey of Zahra Mosawi, Afghan Woman Entrepreneur 

Starting a Business in St. Louis: The Journey of Zahra Mosawi, Afghan Woman Entrepreneur  When Zahra Mosawi arrived in St. Louis, she carried more than just suitcases. She carried dreams—dreams of building a new life, contributing to her community, and carving out her own path as a businesswoman.  Like many newcomers, Zahra faced uncertainty and the challenge of figuring out […]

Why Do You Need to Move to St. Louis?

As the sun rises on August 17th, 2023, a new chapter of hope and opportunity begins for the Afghan diaspora in America. Moji Sidiqi, the visionary Afghan Community Development Program Manager, and Hamdullah Hamdard, the dynamic Afghan Support Communications Manager, kickstart a monumental journey that spans across some of the most vibrant Afghan-populated cities in the United States. Their mission: […]

ST. LOUIS – WHERE DREAMS SOAR AND LIVES THRIVE

In the bustling heart of the Afghan diaspora in America, a community shares a common dream – the dream of a life where possibilities are endless. Their yearning is simple yet profound: to turn their dreams into reality and to thrive like never before. The Afghan Support Program asks a question that is about to change lives forever, “Do you […]

Welcome Afghan Refugees to St. Louis 

Afghan refugees have faced tremendous challenges and dangers as they uplifted their lives and their families to come to America. We here in St. Louis wholeheartedly welcome all Afghan refugees who are already in St. Louis and others who want to come.  We’re not just talking about it, but have a tremendously welcoming community, hundreds of volunteers, and over 80 […]

Afghan Support Program Country Tour

As the sun rises on August 17th, 2023, a new chapter of hope and opportunity begins for the Afghan diaspora in America. Moji Sidiqi, the visionary Afghan Community Development Program Manager, and Hamdullah Hamdard, the dynamic Afghan Support Communications Manager, kickstart a monumental journey that spans across some of the most vibrant Afghan-populated cities in the United States. Their mission: […]