Twelve years ago a then family of four picked up what they could carry and began a long journey to hope. They fled their native Sudan amidst the backdrop of a violent civil war. Their journey took them to a refugee camp in Kenya before delivering them to the United States, and ultimately Des Moines.
Since their journey began, their numbers have grown. Paul and Kulow now care for their seven children; Duit (17) who attends Roosevelt High School, Tetloh (14) who goes to Callahan Middle School, Nyakat (10) and the twins Sunday and Kuothin (8) all attending Granger Elementary School and the two youngest Nyibol (4), and Kir (21 months).
Kulow now stays home with the youngest, but continues to take morning classes at DMACC in order to pursue a better job when they enter school. Paul supports his family while working at Dee Zee. The now family or nine lives in a three bedroom apartment, but sees their journeys end growing near as they join with Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity and Principal Financial Group to build a five bedroom home at 1924 Jefferson adorned with a door they know will lead to a brighter future for all inside.