Our Story
A Community United
Our initiative began with a simple wall of IOUs at Noble Halal Market in Yuba City, where store owner Mohammad Marouf Sharifi keeps track of small debts that accrue when his customers are short on money. These paper notes represent more than just transactions—they represent trust, community, and the American spirit of helping our neighbors.
"I take that risk, because I was in a bad situation before, and I know it's hard to provide. Especially to people coming to a new country, it's hard to get everything, and especially it's hard to get a good job. I understand that."
- Mohammad Marouf Sharifi, Noble Halal Market Owner
From Interpreter to Community Pillar
Mohammad Marouf Sharifi's journey exemplifies the very essence of the American dream and our duty to help others achieve it. As a former interpreter for the U.S. military in Afghanistan, he came to America on a special immigrant visa, working jobs many Americans would not, sacrificing his own comfort to provide a better life for his children. In 2018, he opened Noble Halal Market, which has become more than just a store—it's a lifeline for newly arrived refugee families.
Why We Do This
America has long stood as a beacon of hope, a shining city upon a hill. This isn't just rhetoric—it's a responsibility. When our neighbors arrive with nothing but hope and a promise of safety, we believe it's our duty to help them build their new lives.
The Challenge We Face
Recent policy changes have left many refugee families in limbo. In early 2025, over 10,000 fully vetted refugees had their travel plans canceled, including 83 Afghans expected by Sacramento area resettlement agencies. Behind these numbers are real families—people who risked everything to help America, now waiting for America to help them.
"If somebody helps you, you better help them back... Keep your promises. And take those people out of Afghanistan as soon as possible. Those are the people who deserve to be here now."
- Mohammad Marouf Sharifi
Our Approach
We're not a large organization or a government agency. We're neighbors helping neighbors, focusing on specific, tangible needs in our community:
- Supporting local stores like Noble Halal Market that extend credit to refugee families
- Connecting resources with specific neighborhoods where refugees are rebuilding their lives
- Working with local partners who understand our community's unique needs
A Story of Timing and Hope
One of our community members arrived less than a week before the refugee program was suspended. He often wakes in his Yuba City apartment with mixed emotions—relief at having made it to safety, followed by deep sadness for those left behind.
"Even in the nighttime when I wake up, I feel that, what if I was in Pakistan instead and Trump signed this order. I would have been in Afghanistan and I would have been killed by Taliban."
- Recent Refugee (name withheld for safety)
After spending two and a half years in Pakistan going through the vetting process, he and his family finally made it to America—just days before the door closed behind them. Now, he's part of our growing Afghan community in Yuba City, where neighbors help neighbors build new lives.
The Impact of Community Support
In Yuba City alone, we've seen how small acts of kindness can transform lives. From helping cover grocery IOUs to assisting with medical appointments, each contribution helps a family stand on their own feet.
As one recent arrival put it: "I would change my home, but I won't change my country. I won't leave America."
We are a volunteer-led community initiative, not a registered nonprofit. While donations are not tax-deductible, 100% of contributions go directly to supporting refugee needs in our community.