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Leni Kirkman or Julie Wiley - 210-358-2335

University Health System teaches child safety to Bantu Tribe members

Some 200 exiles from Somalia are making a new start in San Antonio

(SAN ANTONIO - May 29, 2006) They spent most of their lives in refugee camps, following the outbreak of civil war in Somalia. They were tortured beyond what most of us could imagine. But after years of living a nightmare, and lots of red tape, they are now in San Antonio, trying to start a new life.

They are members of the Somali Bantu tribe, and adjusting to life in San Antonio is a lot more than just eating breakfast tacos and watching the Spurs. The Bantu have never used a phone or any electrical appliance - never stepped foot in a grocery store, or driven a car.

They have just six months to go from “culture shock” to self-sufficient. Sponsored by Catholic Charities, these newest members of the San Antonio community are learning English and VERY grateful for this life-changing opportunity. By the end of six months they will need to be employed and able to pay rent and living expenses.

Since most of the San Antonio Bantu refugees are parents with very young children, the child safety experts at University Health System are providing potentially life-saving advice on how to keep their children safe in their homes and on the roadways.

UHS educators present the information in English and an interpreter translates it to the group in their spoken tongue - a non-written language called Mai-Mai.

The group of parents say they enjoy the classes and have learned a lot of important child safety information.

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