JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. –
Q1. Can they leave base?
A1. We currently provide our Afghan guests with culturally appropriate food, water, bedding, religious services, recreational activities, and other requirements such as transportation from the port of entry to the location of accommodations, and some medical services. In support of Department of Homeland Security, DoD is proud to make these accommodations and services available until they transition to their new home. The process is different for each person or family depending on where they are in the process. They may leave the base, but may lose the assistance they can receive through DHS. Please contact the Department of Homeland Security for more information about the process.
Q2. Will they undergo a background check?
A2. Before an individual is allowed into the United States, U.S. intelligence, law enforcement, and counterterrorism professionals conduct screening and security vetting. Vetting occurs at the temporary safe haven locations prior to travel to the United States. The Department of Homeland Security, in conjunction with the intelligence community and in line with the current U.S. vetting procedures, approves the manifest of every flight to the United States.
Q3. Are they going to receive the COVID vaccine?
A3. Our Afghan guests were provided with pre-flight health screening for all boarding passengers in Kabul and temporary safe havens, and symptomatic individuals are tested for COVID-19. Travelers arriving in the United States are tested for COVID-19 upon arrival, in coordination with the Centers for Disease Control, the Department of Health and Human Services, and local public health officials. For specific COVID mitigation measures, including vaccinations, please contact Department of Homeland Security.
Q4. Who do I contact with job offers from the community?
A4. Evacuee resettlement would not be possible without the support of state and local governments, our resettlement partners and affiliates, non-governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, advocacy groups, and volunteers.
Tens of thousands of people in local communities across the United States ensure the success of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) by welcoming and helping integrate refugees from around the world. We encourage people who are interested in assisting resettled Afghan persons to reach out to their local refugee resettlement agency for information about how they can support Afghans in their communities. There are many opportunities to be involved in welcoming Afghan evacuees and helping them to rebuild their lives in the U.S.
You can find a list of resettlement agency and affiliate contacts at www.wrapsnet.org.
Q5. Is there any protocol in place for the refugees? There has been sightings of them in our neighborhood.
A5. Liberty Village provides our Afghan guests with everything they need to transition to life in America. As they settle in to their new surroundings, they may wander into housing areas. Please be respectful and encourage them to return to Liberty Village as it is the safest place for them right now. If there is ever an unsafe situation, something needs to be addressed or you need assistance communicating, please call BDOC at 609-754-6001. You will be connected with someone who can help you liaise in that situation.