'WE WANTED TO HELP'

Kind Aussies are opening their arms - and homes - to people in need

- Maisy Rae

Community crusaders

Marie Sellstrom recently sponsored two families who fled Afghanistan after the Taliban's return in August 2021.

Supported by her Mansfield, Victoria, community, which raised money through local market stalls, Marie has funded passports, visas and living expenses for those in need.

"From the supply of household goods, furniture, bedding and clothing to the five teachers who have volunteered their time to teach the English language, the support from the community has been overwhelmingly supportive," Marie tells Woman's Day, adding that her Rural Australians for Refugees Mansfield group is asking local governments to increase their aid for at risk or displaced people.

One family helped by the group is Halima and her children, who fled Bamyan and arrived four months ago. "I was forced to leave," the lawyer explains. "The Taliban thought I was a very bad woman for society."

"I know that the Australian people gave my family a lot of help and I really appreciate it." Zainav, 22, is settling into her new life and hopes to work in nursing.

"There are a lot of dangerous animals here," she laughs. "But here I'm safe - there is no war."

Hamida, who worked in Afghanistan's ministry of national defence, also fled her Bamyan home once the Taliban returned. And while it's a little colder in Australia than she imagined, Hamida feels at peace.