refugees

An update from a retired Green Beret from Ottumwa on his efforts to help his former Afghan Special Forces counterpart. Then, what the travel ban means for Afghan refugees.

About 1,800 Iowa National Guard soldiers are heading to the Middle East.

Remembering Iowa's decision to welcome southeast Asian refugees after the Vietnam war, and a look at their legacy in the state.

Global Greens helps former refugee and immigrant farmers grow and sell food in Iowa. With federal funding freezes, cuts and uncertainty, staff are exploring new ways to bring in dollars.

In April 1975, Marine pilot John Morgan received orders to fly his helicopter to Vietnam and help evacuate people after the war. It ended up being the largest helicopter evacuation in history — and a defining moment in his life as an American.

As negotiations for a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia continue without a solid resolution, a different conflict plays out for Ukrainian refugees living in Iowa. Some fear being forced to leave their new and peaceful lives.

On this Newsbuzz episode we check in with a state government reporter on the first legislative hurdle, and follow up on reporting from IPR staff.

Refugee resettlement services are running out of money as they wait for federal reimbursements. The nonprofit Lutheran Services of Iowa says it has not been reimbursed for $1.5 million owed by the federal government.

The White House stopped funding refugee resettlement agencies. Federal funding made up roughly 80% of their budgets.

Adovcates say there is a critical need for providers who understand the unique needs of people who faced great trauma to come to America.