PHILADELPHIA — The City of Philadelphia and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) continue to coordinate regarding Operation Allies Welcome as we provide a point-of-entry location for individuals evacuated from Afghanistan. Flights to Philadelphia are expected to resume today, Tuesday, October 5 following a three-week delay to allow time for public health precautions.
PHL is now the only airport in the country welcoming arrivals into the United States as part of this federally-led operation. Previously, Dulles International Airport in Virginia had also been involved. The City of Philadelphia, along with its partner organizations in this effort, stands ready to provide medical assistance, housing, and connection to the diverse community of immigrant service providers who can assist with an array of social services.
The City cannot confirm information on how many people are expected and when they are arriving. Reporters can contact the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security for more information.
“We’re proud that the City and so many partners in this effort have banded together to welcome more than 11,000 evacuees through PHL. As a point-of-entry location, we provided support and services after evacuees were cleared by customs. Now that we are the only airport in the United States welcoming evacuees, our commitment remains stronger than ever. We will protect the rights and dignity of the Afghan individuals and families arriving in our country,” said Mayor Kenney.
The City of Philadelphia previously provided the following updates regarding Operation Allies Welcome:
Evacuees: From August 28 to September 10, the City reports that 11,869 evacuees came through PHL via 49 aircraft. On Wednesday, October 6, the City will resume posting daily evacuee arrival totals on Twitter from the @PhiladelphiaGov account. Updates will be sent at noon. Members of the public can follow important updates using #OperationAlliesWelcomePHL.
Donations: Please keep in mind that donated supplies cannot be accepted at Philadelphia International Airport for security reasons.
The best way to support organizations that are providing aid to people is through monetary donations to vetted groups that are providing immediate and long-term relief.
In Philadelphia, the City’s Office of Immigrant Affairs is working with Nationalities Services Center, HIAS Pennsylvania, Bethany Cristian Services and Catholic Social Services. HIAS Pennsylvania and ICNA Relief PA are also accepting in-kind donations.
There are many opportunities to be involved in welcoming Afghans and helping them to rebuild their lives in the United States. View the list of resettlement agencies and affiliate contacts. Also check this new national initiative to welcome new neighbors — Welcome.US — for additional opportunities to help.
Notes on Terminology: Operation Allies Welcome had been previously known as Operation Allies Refuge PHL during the earlier phase of this federally-led mission.
As passengers on arriving flights may include U.S. citizens, U.S. military personnel, visa holders and applicants, lawful permanent residents, and people seeking asylum, the federal government advises using “evacuees” instead of “refugees” to describe arriving passengers.
B-Roll/Photos: Photos and video are available for media use; beginning Tuesday, October 5, they will be updated frequently. Credit: City of Philadelphia.