Compassionate Tips for Immigrants Settling Into a New Country

It’s crucial that human beings care for one another, and that includes bringing love and light into the lives of those who have recently immigrated. We offer these compassionate tips to help you adjust to this new world and still stay connected to your life back home. 

Support Your Family Abroad  

Many immigrants come to this country because they want to be able to support their loved ones who are still back home. If you are planning on sending money back to family members, know that there are safe and reliable ways to do so. For example, if you’re sending money to loved ones in India, you can transfer funds using your debit card in as little as four hours for a nominal fee when you use a service like Remitly. 

If you plan on arranging a trip to have your family members visit, you should also be aware of the current requirements and restrictions for international travel. Many countries insist on a negative COVID test to enter into the country, but rules change quite often. 

Become Part of Your New Community 

Attending church services is one of the most effective and positive ways to do so. You will gain a deeper connection with God, but you’ll also gain some other surprising perks. Your church can provide the social support you need to feel comfortable in your new home. In turn, you’ll also have opportunities to give back, which can boost your health and confidence and expand your network. 

It’s also worth noting that the cultural differences can feel vast and uncertain for new immigrants. Many experience some level of culture shock, but surrounding yourself with kind, loving, and compassionate people can soothe anxieties. You should also allow yourself some time to adjust while taking proactive and positive steps to smooth out the transition. 

Stay Connected to Your Values and Culture

While it’s helpful to build connections with your new community and country, it’s also understandable if you need to maintain the practices and values that you brought with you. These cultural rituals are like your roots, and there’s no reason to give them up after your move. The key is to perhaps strike a balance between both cultures and worlds, as you feel comfortable. 

Keeping in touch with your friends and family back home is one of the best ways to honor your culture, and there are so many ways to do so from afar. Social media is an invaluable tool, but you can also take advantage of video chat services like FaceTime and Zoom and instant messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. You could also get creative with recipe exchanges or scrapbooks to share your travels. 

There may also be local gatherings and clubs that can help you connect with other immigrants and even get to know your new neighbors. Sharing a meal together is such a profound form of fellowship and will allow you to blend your new culture with the old in a beautiful way. If there are no such clubs in your area, you could also talk to church leaders about starting one. 

Immigrating from a different country is a monumental change. Change will always be a little scary, but it becomes less so when your faith is strong and you have the support of people who live their lives with kindness and compassion. It also helps to support these new community members and stay connected to loved ones back home, as well. 

Written by: Elena Stewart

Photo Credit: Unsplash