Somali Bantu office opens for business

The OD related the opening of the nonprofit Mohawk Valley Somali Bantu Community Association at its new office at 309 Genesee St.

“We decided to open the office to help our community because there is a lot of need on the language barriers, employment, case management and resources for families.” Executive Director Sidi Mwalimu said.

The plan to open an office began evolving about two years ago, when organizers wanted to ensure that their relatives and other Bantu refugees knew where to find needed services.

“We will be like a bridge for the outside and our community,” he said.

According to Mwalimu, Bantu families have a hard time communicating in English and reading documents. The nonprofit group will help refugees read their mail, fill out forms and complete daily routines such as paying bills and going to appointments.

“When they need a job, we can help them with job searching, interview preparations, and training on how to find a job.” Mwalimu said. We are also authorized to work with any refugee in Utica, so whoever comes in the door and has refugee status, we can help them.” Read more here.