Maryolga’s Journey: Seeking Stability in a New Land

In late December, Maryolga arrived in Chicagoland through the refugee program, seeking safety and a fresh start. She traveled with her 15-year-old daughter and elderly mother, reuniting with her 19-year-old son, who was already in the U.S. 

Their journey reflects a broader exodus; since 2014, over 7.7 million Venezuelans have fled their homeland due to severe economic collapse and political instability. The country’s economy shrank by an estimated 75% between 2014 and 2021, leading to widespread scarcity of basic goods and services. (sources: Bread for the World, World Vision)  

“When we went from Venezuela to Colombia,” says Maryolga, “we were out in the open air, with practically nothing.” 

She left home during her third year of law school. In Colombia, she spent eight years working as a motorcycle delivery driver, doing what she could to get by. 

A Fresh Start, But New Challenges 

When they arrived in the U.S. during Chicago’s winter, donors and volunteers helped set up and furnish their apartment. Having a roof over their heads, a bed to sleep in, and food on the table was, as she puts it, a “super mega positive” thing. 

But some of the challenges in the U.S. soon became clear. Policies affecting refugees and other immigrants changed rapidly in challenging ways. For example, the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) under which many Venezuelans reside in the U.S. will soon end. While Maryolga arrived through the refugee program, which is different from TPS, she was impacted when the government suspended initial support for newly arrived refugees just a month after she landed. 

Thankfully, the community stepped into the gap, and she had 387 refugees had their needs provided for!  

Building a Future, One Step at a Time 

For now, Maryolga and her family are stepping into their futures. They are building their lives, have gained employment, and are navigating this new culture while engaging economically within their community. 

“My son works part-time as a locksmith,” she says. “I’m applying for a job at Culver’s right now. When my daughter turns 16, she’ll look for a job too. God willing, we hope to get some stability.” 

As they work toward stability, the politically charged environment in the U.S. creates another challenge—one she responds to with an invitation to her neighbors. 

An Invitation to Understand 

“I’d like my American neighbors to know that not all of us are the same,” Maryolga shares. “I’m aware there are some people of my nationality who’ve come here and done bad things. But there are people who come here to fight for a better future for themselves and their families. We shouldn’t all be put in the same package…People shouldn’t let the yellow journalism news outlets or social media tell them everything. Instead, take the time to get to know us.” 

How You Can Help 

Maryolga’s story is just one of many. Over 1,500 refugees who arrived in the last 18 months are rebuilding their lives—finding jobs, learning English, and navigating a new culture. 

You can provide vital friendship and support as a volunteer.