CRIS 30th Anniversary Story | Hazaa
Originally from Syria, Hazaa, his wife, and their four adult children were resettled together by CRIS in 2023. Since then, Hazaa has been a dedicated participant in CRIS’ English classes and regularly takes part in the CRIS Senior Services program.
“ I was a refugee in Lebanon since 2014 because of the war,” Hazaa shares. “Life in Lebanon was difficult. Many others from Syria had also fled to Lebanon. Housing was costly. Even though I was an experienced carpenter, I could not find work. I grew a small garden to provide some fresh vegetables for my family. One of my sons found work there, and my daughter made a little money as a seamstress. It felt like we had no future.”
Hazaa grew up as a shepherd boy in rural Syria. He warmly recalls being captivated by Neil Armstrong’s moon landing in 1969, an event he listened to on the small radio his family owned. That fascination never left him. One of the highlights of his life since resettling has been visiting the Armstrong Air & Space Museum in eastern Ohio. And when American astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore returned to Earth in the spring of 2025 after nine months in space, Hazaa celebrated by throwing a party in their honor.
On his own initiative, Hazaa frequently brings donations to the CRIS office to support others. He explains, “I like all people. When I share with others, I feel that I enjoy my own food more.”
Hazaa says he is deeply grateful to be in America and for the support they have received from CRIS and others over the last year and a half. He shares, “We thank CRIS, who wiped our tears and welcomed us with flowers at the Columbus airport. They took us to a home and helped us with rental support in our first three months. Our language skills were zero, our finances were zero, and we did not know very much about American culture when we came. They helped us get medical appointments, vaccinations, food, and financial assistance. They taught us the language and culture, helped us get driver’s licenses. I will not forget the volunteers who made my family feel so welcome.”