YOUR COMMENTS

Mr Mike from Hampstead,
What is Hampstead doing for Refugees???
Keep your 2 cents for Hampstead, you need it worse than we do!
- Katie, Manchester

ugggh. To all the idiots complaining about the "free ride" these people are on, please understand this. In Manchester, $3000 was spent on all refugees. 100k people live in Manchester. that works out to roughly 2 cents a person. Are you really upset about your 2 cents going to help someone who has lived in conditions far worse than you could ever imagine? Really? Because if you are, I've got my 2 cents for you, but they can't be printed here.....
- mike, hampstead, nh

Dear NH Lady, you calle "parrots" people who speak on behalf of America as country of Immigrants. I think you may needs to trace your ancestors background, before you started to commnents negatively. Below is the definition of Refugee according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Thank you.

Refugee
Any person who is outside any country of such person’s nationality or, in the case of a person having no nationality, is outside any country in which such person last habitually resided, and who is unable or unwilling to return to, and is unable or unwilling to avail himself or herself of the protection of that country because of persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. [INA § 101(a)(42)(a); 8 USC § 1101(a)(42)(a)].
- Peter Nhiany, Manchester, NH

I'm always amazed at the bleeding hearts who don't see the utter insanity of this "refugee" influx.

Hmmm... let's see, we are in a recession (I think it is a depression) and jobs are scarce, funding for everything that depends on taxes is scarce, we are having a difficult enough time locating and handling the 20 million + illegal immigrants here, and Social Marxists want to import MORE third world people that are a burden to our communities and services. This is a good idea, how?

Ah yes, "we are all immigrants"... well, when my people came here there were jobs for them to fill, they were expected to speak English and to assimilate into American society. This is not true of these "refugees".
- Mason, Derry

"None of this would have happened if G.W. Bush was still in office
- Pete, Bristol"

You're kidding, right? I used to work at the airport and watch the African "refugees" fly in 3 to 4 years ago. All of this was going on on Bush's watch as well as millions of Mexicans streaming across the border in the south, while we were wasting money and troops over in Iraq... they should have been on the Mexican border!
- Mason, Derry

Karen, Manchester: Since it seems you have a bottomless pocketbook I hope you continue to support these immigrants. The bottom line for me is that these people come here for medical, educational and monetary assistance. They then take whatever they can eke out (while still living on our dime) and send it back to their home country to bring even more folks in to earn more money to send back to the mother country. They colonize in one section of the city they live in and form a Somalian or Sudanese society so they can continue to live their life of the 'home country". They have no intention of becoming American citizens in the true sense. They only want the financial assistance and security that America gives them on the backs of hard working American citizens who are finding it hard to make ends meet. They do not deserve our help and I, for one, am tired giving alms to those who end up turning their backs on us and worse killing us because we don't change our American ways to embrace theirs.
- Sandy, Thornton

Legal immigration is fine, assuming they are not on the public tab, which doesn't seem to be the case. Stealing (taxes) from one (working) family to pay another is criminal. 'Live Free or die tryin...' How's that "Great Society" thing working for you, America?
- Mae, Plaistow

I’m a supporter of legal immigration. By the way, refugees have been relocated NH for over a decade and will be regardless of who is in the White House.

Largely due to unfortunate and inhumane circumstances, these people were forced to leave their countries. Keyword here is “forced”; they did not choose to leave. The only thing they have been given is a chance to start afresh elsewhere in an unfamiliar land. The government or charity assistance only lasts for a little while until they are able to get on their feet. A few of them may need long-term assistance based on special circumstances just like any other resident who acquires public assistance. Most of them are hard-working, family-oriented individuals who are looking to better themselves and their families. I know a young man, who in less than 8 years - worked 2 full-time jobs, went to school, and earned a college degree.

Like it or not, NH is going to be diversified. It’s up to you to embrace changes and maybe learn a lesson or two from these new residents.

For all you ignorant, chronic complainers, and activists without a cause, go to your local library, pick a book and educate yourself about issues facing your city, your state, your country, and the world as a whole. Maybe you can come up with a solution. Be an advocate in your community. You know, there is a “real world” beyond your city limits. Take your kids to a National Park and grab the opportunities our great nation has to offer.
- Karen, Manchester, NH

They are a huge burden on New Hampshire. They don't speak English. They don't know how to obey the laws and rules. They get our tax money. They eat our food. They draw on welfare, food stamps. DCYF has to remove abused children because they don't have the same values. Democrats need to stop this madness. Oh wait, look who is leading them.
- Cindy, Loudon

Manchester is getting a disproportionate amount of refugees abandoned here by Lutheran Social Services. Nashua does not take in refugees.
I know for a fact that these refugees are receiving Section 8 and they are not even citizens! I know of one family from Sudan who receives Section 8. The mother works a housekeeping job in a local hotel, while the father of their 2 kids chooses not to work. They own 2 nice cars. I still remember the day, the woman told me of her good fortune, "Good news! Good news! " I inquired what? I got Section 8 and they pay all my rent . I thought she hit the Powerball by the way she was carrying on. In a way I guess she did.
I think we should change the state moto " Live Free or Die." Were going to die broke trying to support all those that choose to live free!
- Katie, Manchester

Wait just a cotton-pickin' minute.

You mean to tell me that thousands of people-persons from other countries can be imported here and stuffed into small, lead-lined, bedbug-infested boxes, but I am not allowed to own three hens (no noisy roosters) on my own 1/2 acre property to provide my family with fresh eggs.

Do I have that right?

Where's the Lutheran Chicken Services when you need 'em? I say, son...
- Alan, Manchester

To all of those who say the immigrants are doing the work Americans will not do, does that include all of the crime as well? When the wages are being depressed by the influx of cheap labor has that anything to do with the lack of educated Americans applying for the jobs or even employers considering Americans when immigrants will do the work for less?

Why do the immigrants wish to come here? Let's see. You have food stamps. Section 8 housing. SSI checks. WIC. Basic welfare (now called entitlement). Why wouldn't they want to leave their hell-hole of a nation for USA; where all wish to come to live here, but of late, few wish to assimilate and be Americans speaking English, assuming the work ethic of northern Europeans, and the ethic of education.

We take the lack thereof as normal but it has only occurred since the Great Society legislation and actions of the Democrat party led by FDR and later by LBJ taking hold in the '60s.

No, the immigration we see is a continuation of the weakening of the fabric of a once great people, firmly held together by language, culture, and ethic, and protected from without by the understanding that strong nations have strong borders to keep out the sewage that flows from without.
- Don, londonderry

Hey Peter CHARITY starts at home!!! Lets take care of us and then maybe everyone else!!!!!! So all you bleeding heart types why dont you go over there and fix the problems of the world?!?
- John P, Brookline nh

Most American's want to do well for themselves and others. Everyone of us in all 50 states can trace their ancestry to immigration (yes that includes "Native Americans") With atrocities occuring in the many countries mentioned in this article it might seem logical and humane for the US and New Hampshire in particlular to welcome a massive increase in the number of immigrants. Unfortunately, that that well intetioned line of thought is flawed.

As Roy Beck astutely observes, it does nothing to alleviate the problem in the country of origin. Instead the money we spend on welcoming these immigrants deprives hard working Americans of Our money. It lowers the standards which can be acheived in schools.

We should welcome immigration, but return it to a sustainable level, i.e. less than 200,000 immigrants/year.

America is an awesome country, but it is not for everyone. We are lucky to be born here or to have immigrated here, but we can not abssorb all of the worlds' refugees anymore than we can continue to be the world police.

Lets put America First. If you want to help refugees in specific countries, volunteer your time and/or give your money. Teach the people of those countries what a "GDP" is, what commerce is, so they can transform their nations into prosperity.
- Michael Layon, Derry

This makes me so frustrated. I am being crushed by student loans that I had to take out to go to school to get a good job. Because of this crushing debt and the $400 a week I pay in taxes, I can't buy a house. And guess what? My $1200 a month in taxes goes to pay a refugee's rent, while I struggle to pay my own rent.

Then, while the refugee is paying nothing in rent, they can save for a down payment for a house while I am still struggling to pay for the next refugee.

Tell me how this is fair!!!!!
- Carol, Concord, NH

Peter Nhiany and other like-minded individuals,

Please pay no attention to these dissenters of "unforced" immigration. Unfortunately their comments, which are mostly based on fear and ignorance, can stir up quite a buzz, but know that they DO NOT speak for the vast majority of New Hampshire citizens. Compassion doesn't end once hard times present themselves. And we think we have it bad. Why don't you try getting to know some of our new community members and ask about what they've been through. I bet you'll quickly understand how lucky you truly are.
- Justin, Hooksett

Americans are complaining about the number of refugees coming into this country and taking jobs away from Americans, but I don't see many Americans willing to do the work these refugees are willing to do and for the money refugees are willing to take. These are not just tough times, they are extraordinary times in terms of unemployment and hardship. My hope is that our system takes this into account when determining the number of people who are legally allowed into this country. I'm willing to live and let let as long as guests to our country abide by our laws.
- Doug, Concord

Mary Hall, Canada only takes immigrants with needed skills, Mexico defends their southern border with armed force.

We're the dumping ground.
- Jason Entres, Hollis

To all those folks thinking it's just so horrid that we have refugees coming to NH, you ought to be ashamed of yourselves.

Many, if not all, of these refugees are come here fleeing and oppressive government under which they may have been jailed, tortured, or had family members jailed, tortured or murdered.

I think they are incredibly brave to leave their native country behind, and to come to a place where they 1. don't know anyone 2. do not speak the language or are familiar with the culture 3. face angry mean citizens who feel that they have no right to be here.

Are they all perfect? No. Did they take your job? Most likely not. Are they all welfare leaches? No.

I hope and pray every day that I will not find myself in their situation - having to flee my country, and rely on the (un)kindness of strangers.
- Bess, Concord

The religious "charities" involved in refugee resettlement have morphed into money-making govrnment contractors. Seduced by huge incentives for growth in the programs they profit from.
- Katie, Manchester

My grandparents were immigrants from Greece who were assisted by "sponsors" - relatives or friends who would assist them. The did NOT receive any government assistance.
Why are we accepting and assisting immigrants when there are so many homeless Americans and working poor Americans? Charity begins at home!
- DM, MANCHESTER NH

None of this would have happened if G.W. Bush was still in office
- Pete, Bristol

Considering the number of dictatorships that we've either propped up or created in the 3rd world, I consider this nothing less than karma coming back. Go look into the history of the CIA and you'll see exactly what I'm talking about; we have put into and helped to maintain the power some of the worst villains in world history. And then of course there is the fact that the US consumes and destroys more of the worlds resources than virtually any other country out there, yes I think we can accept the burden of a few people suffering under the conditions we so often are responsible for creating.

For those of you who believe (as I also do) that our freedoms are being taken from us, there are much more insidious forces at work than these refugees... see the NAU, the Fed or practically the entire PATRIOT act for good examples of this.

But I must agree with previous commentors that the refugees who have taken up residence in my area of Concord, and others whom I've gotten to know, are some of the nicest people I know. And there are a great many drunks and drug addicts I'd sooner see off the welfare roles before these folks.
- Phil, Concord

All you parrots of "WE ARE A NATION OF IMMIGRANTS"

Here's the definition of immigrant. How many of you qualify?

An Immigrant is a person who has citizenship in one country but who enters a different country to set up a permanent residence. Just entering another country does not make you an immigrant. In order to be an immigrant you must have citizenship in one country, and you must have gone to a different country with the specific intention of living there
- NH Lady, Merrimack

I am so sick of hearing "we are a nation of immigrants" from those of you calling the rest of us ignorant. How long does your family have to here to qualify as an immigrant?

Some of you remind me of ELOY. Your country is being stolen from you and it can't happen fast enough for some of you people.

The Abenaki were immigrants too if you want to go that far back as are most of the people on the planet.

So we are a planet of immigrants. Try to apply to enter any other country. Good luck because you can't get in unless you have a skill they need, you can't have any health problems.
- NH Lady, Merrimack

For all you bleeding hearts out there, I have a few questions. How do we pay for this? Who will pay for this? We have no money, and are going broke. Give us a break, go to Canada or Mexico. We need to stop this country of social services. The funds need to come from somewhere and it isn't coming from these countries dumping their population on us.
- Mary Hall, Nashua

It's amusing to see limosine libs from the Seacoast calling people who disagree with the refugees settling here "racists". Most of these Seacoast folks are white-flight refugees from Mass. who left because they were "disturbed" by the habits of their new brown-skinned neighbors. I wonder how many of these Bhutanese, Somalis, Iraqis, Bosnians, or any other refugees would be willing to pick up a weapon and fight as soon as they get off the plane? The "Civil War-era" refugees had to do just that; they got off the boat and got handed Enlistment papers to fight for the Union. It's much better nowadays, with these "dumb Americans" who just pay for everything. Oh, and unlike immigrants, they are allowed into America if they are HIV positive. This is a disaster, especially in this economy.
- John, Portsmouth

Change the welfare/aid (free ride) rules to 2 year limits, you need to be a US Citizen at least 10 years, and you MUST be a NH Resident all 10 of those years before you qualify for ANY government assistance (my wallet).

Then let's see how many come here.

Thanks Jeane, we are the welfare state of the region. You saw it as Democrat voters and you were right. The destruction continues.

Live FREE or die. They live free while the taxpayers die trying to pay pay pay.

If you all want to see where we are headed, take a ride to Lowell, or Lynn Mass, you will see clearly.
- Mike, Manchester.

To Mac Wade, so you are going to ginore the past 8 years of fiscal irresponsibilty that was the Bush administration and lay all the blame on Democrats, Now that is a typical Republican move. Come on you are so blind. Bush got us into this mess. Obama has been in office for 6 months and you are already saying he is ineffective. It took Bush 8 years to ruin this country and I am willing to bet it will take anyone at least that long to figure a way out of it. Stop pointing fingers and accept the fact that Bush is to blame for the current situation along with people who think like you do. Grow up and help fix the problem, do not stand there acting like a 3 year shirking blame. Your comments make me realize just how uneducated and blind American's are.
- Jim, Manchester

I've been working in the public sector all my life and as far as immigrants go the Bhutan refugees are the most polite happiest people I've ever encountered. Their children are very well behaved and very polite, wish I could say that about typical American kids especially teenagers who possess no respect for adults at all and have mouths like truckers always using the F word like a verb 4 or 5 times in every sentence. These immigrants may not speak much English but at least I'm not subjected to foul language when they do speak.
And of course these immigrants are so happy have you checked out the conditions of the refugee camps they were living in in Nepal for the last 20 years.
- Joanne P., Manchester

It's matter of economics not "race". Other countries need to help pick up some of the slack on this. The bottom line is that the U.S. must not be the world's teat.

Given our country's current economic issues (thanks to BushObamanomics), we can't AFFORD to take anymore immigration burden. American citizens must come first. Remember there are many Americans who are presently out of work.

Refugee cases need to carefully screened under the microscope - especially for security reasons. Under the Obama administration with it's Leftist policies as Islamofascist protectionists, this is certainly a legitimate concern.

In addition, NH is already short $38m thanks to the Democrats in the state legislature run away spending.
- Mac Wade, Newmarket

When you have people taking more from the system than they put in, it is unsustainable. Taking from those who produce to temporarily prop up the unsustainable model will lead to complete collapse.
- Mike R, Bedford

Great, were loosing jobs by the thousands, now we have more people on welfare. How is the welfare situation in the Sudan or any other country where these people come from? At least at West High School, if they attend, where with Bedford gone. The student teacher ratio is about 1 teacher for 10 to 12 students.
- Russell, Manchester,

Peter Nhiany, are you speaking of the plans for our Islamification?

"Dear American citizens................I know you won't listen, but there is a time you will understand something that will remind you about what you have said today on Unionleader's news. Thank you."

Don't expect that Americans won't fight for our ways. The founding fathers came here by will and struggle, not on a welfare bus. Historically, Americans are tolerant and respectful. As a nation Americans help those who need help, and resent those who abuse our generosity. We reward and help those who help themselves.
- mark, manchester

It is a shame that there are good American citizens that need help but cannot just because we are helping immigrants first. It is not right. They do not care about the US Citizens but just have their hand out for help. Let our Politicians in Washington take care of them with the money they are stealing from us each year. HELP SHOULD BEGIN AT HOME..
- Walter, Manchester, NH

The founding Americans were refugees !! Fleeing religious persecution and they all landed on OCCUPIED land . When the original refugees of this country became ill and could not feed themselves the ORIGINAL people of this country helped them, fed them, gave them food, nursed them back to health, showed them how to survive in this harsh enviromnent. Granted today there are no physical hurdles to overcome, well perhaps there are, the UGLY American who cry that they are not welcome. Get a grip and remember where you come from.
- Lynda R, Merrimack

i am amazed how most of the people who think this is such a good program do not live in manchester. if their city or town was flooded with all these refugees they'd have a completely different opinion!
- bill, manchester

Id rather have a hard working refugee than a lazy American anyday. I see some of these people starting there own businesses and working hard. They are not all depending on aid.
- Rich, Manchester

Dear American citizens, you being called world's citizens, and you do not even sense that in your nerves. What is wrong with you people? Hey, crying for bad thing to happen is not a good my dear fellow citizens. That is not the best way we can promote our great country image. We are depreciating it. Do you know what you are saying here is going to be read by the world? You are selling America cheap. America is not that cheap, would not be cheap in any way you people may potray it. I know many of you who are displaying hatred here are not educated, and they have sense of about the world as whole. Get out of your balcony and take a walk to neighbor's yard. See what is around you and get some little knowledge of your outer sorrounding. See what you will think when you return to your balcony. Can you smell that? Come on people, what you are presenting here is not peace but a shameful that will make us (Americans) people who make non sense. No, lets not make that mistake my people. I know you won't listen, but there is a time you will understand something that will remind you about what you have said today on Unionleader's news. Thank you.

Peter Nhiany.

Co.founder for Life For Sudan.

www.lifeforsudan.org.
- Peter Nhiany, Manchester, NH

In case any of you haven't noticed yet...you're witnessing the death of america... This is just one of the symptoms..
- Steve P., Manchester

Hey Jim....How about this? Who gives a crap what the unemployment rate is in Bhutan? They'll all hate America until they need us..... Then they just hate us on our own soil.. no matter where they come from.....
- Dave D., Manchester

While I feel sorry for these folks, they are costing us millions. It would be cheaper to send them food and firearms and let them fight for freedom in there homeland. As our forefathers did. Freedom ain't free, just look at our troops right now!?!
- John L, Nashua

Even though these people are coming to this country legally, they are still draining resources which they have not contributed to.... Yes, many of our grandparents, great grandparents etc were all immigrants, however when most of them came (jewish, irish, etc) were not welcomed with opened arms and giving any type of assitance....


As much as every hardworking person here loves to give away their paycheck so other people can take care of their families, the reality is this country, this state, and all ready lacking resources can not afford it. Hate to be the one to say it, but what happened to other countries? They can't immigrate there for a better life? I mean according the rest of the world we are some big bad enemy...
- Meghan, Manchester

I will always be amazed by the complete ignorance of the comments here. We are a country of immigrants, all of us ...and some of us from just a few generations ago. The new mayor elect in fact is the child or grandchild of immigrants.

Also, please do some research on legitimate sites before you make comments, you make yourself look foolish.
- L, Manchester

It seems some of you all forget that America is a nation of immigrants, and unless you are a full blooded North American native, your ancestors too arrived here less than 400 years ago. The diversity and dynamism of our nation is what makes it unique throughout history, and for a country that espouses the values of freedom and opportunity as much as America, it would be shameful to turn away those who live in fear. We judge a man's character by how much he is willing to give when he is down and out, not by a paltry sum offered when he is awash in riches.
- Curt, Hudson

I think we should have an exchange program. For every refugee we take in, we could send to their country a fat, lazy, american welfare recipient. This way we could gain someone who appreciates the opportunities our country offers while getting rid of someone who doesn't appreciate anything. Good riddance!
- Bill, Manchester

Yet another opportunity for these dear readers to show just how uncompassionate, uncaring and backwards NH is. Oh, and just plain wrong.

Reading comments like these disgusts me.
- Art, Portsmouth

I never realized so many Manchester residents were of pure-blood Abenaki descent.
- Sawyer, Manchester

I love all these comments about the immigrants taking their jobs. If the average American was willing to "lower" themselves to (oh my gosh) clean a building, or (oh my gosh) work in food service instead of whining about their situation then there wouldn't be as many of these opportunities out there for immigrants to "take away". I was unemployed, and trust me, if it was between my kids not eating or cleaning a filthy kamode, that kamode would look pristine!

Personally, I go to a church with a large Sudanese population, and these folks are great! Best of luck to all of you.
- Justin, Manchester

many of the bhutanese immigrants have spent almost 20 years in refugee camps, having been driven out of their homeland by a majority of a different faith. they need a home, and they cannot go home. they will pull their own weight, and we can give them a hand. the laconia unitarian universalist church recently had a blanket drive for these bhutanese refugees. gee, a blanket. pretty basic, isnt it. they are grateful for a blanket.
- kathi weber, candia nh

Fred from Hooksett:
The sooner we can recover from the economic mess they caused in this country?
Have you been in a coma for the last ten years? As myself and history recall, George W. handed over an economy in horrible condition, a war being fought that has no end in sight, and a plethora of other problems. I agree that the current administration could improve, but my 4 year old son could have done a better job at running this country into the ground than the clueless George W. Bush. You speak as if Obama took over a country in tip-top shape, with a prosperous economy! Get real!
- Tim, Hooksett

I am a single Mom..3 children, Losing my home, Can not find work...And every single resouse has said, NO HELP..NO FUNDS...best of Luck..Oh i have an idea...Stop letting people in..WTF
- SuezieN, manchester NH

These refugees are costing us much more than the $3,000 plus per year.

Cost of refugees for Manchester:

Teaching English as a second language: $2million

Subsidized housing: 4 year waiting list for elderly and disabled Manchester residents while the refugees jump to the head of the line

Of course they don't go to City Welfare. They have cheap housing, free health care and food stamps. Who do you think pays for this?

When the Irish, French and Greeks came to Manchester it was because there was an abundance of jobs begging to be filled. They didn;t come to get free stuff because there were no free rides back then.

Before 1965, 40% of immigrants returned to their home countries because they couldn;t make it here. Now practicaly none leave because if they'e too lazy to make it they get free stuff.

WISE UP!
- NH Lady, Merrimack

america is falling apart and we are still taking people who will live for free on our working backs makes me sick and pissed off.NO MORE FREE RIDES
- tim bourgeois, weare

Tom in Manchester,
Yes, our unemployment rate is 10%. What is it in Bhutan? 12%, 20%, 30% higher? Did you ever think of that? People are people, no matter where their from.
- Jim, Manchester

Live Free Come To America..Why not..This is just what we need !!!!! They have more right than we do....Enough Is Enough..We need to care and look after our own ..
- DIG, Bedford, NH

The state would rather help these people out then a tax payer!! I'm on way of being homeless with 3 kids single mom trying to work and I can't get section 8 because they are giving it to the refurgess first. That is unfair.
- Sara, Manchester, NH

Well, isn't that just ducky...the state has a fiscal crisis that insufficiently addresses delivery of services to the native and existing residents, yet we opent he flood gates for more to come....real prudent....
- Rick Olson, manchester

The immigrants have more rights than we do. I see it here in NJ to! Free apartments, food stamps and free medical. Why would'nt you want to come to America. I think it's about time the US goverment start to think about our people that is already here. The homeless & the elderly and the poor who cannot afford even a apartment. It's time to shut the doors. Some other countries have!!
- Lily, Wall NJ

Congratulations Misty. That is the most ignorant, hateful comment that I have read on this site. Now, the the rest of the bigots, racists, and xenophobes, you've got your work cut out for you, the bar has just hit rock bottom.
- Tom, Dover-Foxcroft, Me.

I am always amazed by those who just don't seem to get that very few of us are actually natives . Get a grip people and learn some history .
- Laurie, Manchester

There are many refugees who were doctors, college professors, lawyers, etc., in their home countries before being forced out by war and violence. And here they are only able to find work in manual labor, but they do it. They have a lot of pride and they want to be as independent as possible. Their ambitions are as high as any one of ours, but their obstacles are beyond our comprehension.
Some of the ignorant, cruel bigotry I've read here is truly horrifying. It's white supremacy, and it's sick.
- Kate, Portsmouth

WELCOME good people. In the tradition of my ancestors and those of most Americans we wish you good health and offer prayers that you may have a prosperous life here.
- Greg Barrett, Manchester

I personally work with many of the Nepali/Bhutanese refugees. They are hard working and are doing a great job providing for their families. They are humble. They work the jobs that most of us lazy Americans refuse to work. Their children are polite and well behaved. They are hospitable. Most of us Americans could learn a lot in hospitality and work ethic by spending a day with one of them. Many of them ARE skilled workers - when they had citizenship rights in Bhutan - they worked good jobs and I think that they have a lot to offer the American workforce.
- AC, manchester

My greatest hope seeing refugees coming to NH is what they can teach us. Maybe we can learn again to appreciate what we have, instead of being so selfish as to deny it to others. Maybe by seeing these people working hard we can learn again that all we have is the freedom to earn our way, the peace of not getting attacked in our homes, the pure joy of having a home and not living in camps. We can share that.
- Barbara, Londonderry

Just what we need, more unskilled workers to add to 10% unemployement.
- Tom, Manchester

We are talking about legal immigrants who need the safety and opportunities that of our country offers. To imply that they will take resources "intended for Americans" doesn't add up according to the article. The $3716 represents less than 0.4% of the welfare budget. Refugees that I have met or read about want to work and their children want to learn. If only that were true for all Americans...
- Laurie, Monroe

Why not, with other states in New England lowering the years to one ot two years allowed to recieve Welfare benefits, New Hampshire was the only state in the region to increase the years to five years allowed to recieve and max out their Welfare benefits. In addition to that, remember no child left behind, they also revieve free heath care for the kids too. Let's see five years of free Welfare benefits, free health care for the kids, a free education, heck I would move here to if I was a Refugee. It's to bad the tax payers don't get the same treatment as the Refugee's, if you don't believe me, just walk through a nursing home some day, and see how we trat the edlery in this state, I bet you will get sick to you stomach.
- tom, Manchester

"Once again President OBama is leting more individuals into our country. " Please check your facts....the writer of this article neglected to mention the bulk of these refugees from Bhutan were invited to this country by non other than George Bush and Condelesa Rice...not some lunitics at the state dept. Bush also finally relented to let more Iraqi refugees into the United States after it was clear the war was causing more and more Iraqis to flee their homes, many of which were being destroyed by bombs. And there you have your over 500 refugees that George Bush authorized. I guess it's easier to post from emotion than do any research of facts.
- Cathy, Derry

Sorry Scott but this program started under Pres. Bush. Have you not noticed all the Bhutan refugees settling here for the past two years or all the African refugees for the past five.
- Joanne, Manchester

Jack Alex and Scott of Manchester- What nasty self serving and cruel comments! We are ALL IMMIGRANTS in this country and it is immigration of those seeking asylum from persecution that has led to a population of hard working immigrants WHO HAVE BUILT THIS NATION.

I know many of these immigrants. They work hard at jobs US citizens wouldn't do. They care for their kids. THEY BECOME CITIZENS who know US history and the consitituion better than you do , I would bet. AND they understand that strength is built on acceptance and unity of all peoples.

I don't know if you two call yourselves Christians, but if you do, I can't wait for Christ's coming- You are tow he will look at and say "you did WHAT in my name???"
- RN, Manchester

No offense to any one, but America needs to take care of its own. Due to the raping of America, we are in a downward spiral. Our jobs and money for the past decade have gone over seas. We have are own children and senior citizens to worry about. This is no longer the land of the plenty. It is the land of the homeless and plenty of unwilling politicians to go around, unless of course the money is for their special interest groups. God Bless America, oops, can I even say that anymore. Leave America alone and take care of your own.
- Jane Hannisian, Manchester

God loves it when we care for one another.
- Pete, Somersworth

Welcome to America, and don't all of the ethnocentrist xenophobes living in NH get you down.

There are still good people here who know about persecution and misery around the world and who understand that the relatively measly amount of money used for refugee assistance makes a big difference. In fact, the $3,716 listed in the article is probably less than a single church saves in its property tax exemption each year.

I don't hear 'em whining about that, do you?
- Jesse, Hill

Why are we wasting billions on war if all we have to do is open our doors to the rest of the world? I say the American Dream is only alive for those who are not Americans. Why bother to invest in your own country and stand up for what you believe in, if the good ol' USA will give you a home and support you in better stead than anything you have ever had?

We need a serious immigration policy overhaul, and it'll get worse before it gets better.
- Jeff, Bennington, NH

This is not the first time the U.S. has taken in refugees from countries in tough economic times. After the Civil War this country was in dire straights and many uneducated Irish, French, and Greeks flooded this country eventually becoming good contributing members of society.
We are a country of people who were misfits because of religion, ethnicity and economic hardships. People seem to forget that over and over again. Have you forgotten the point of Thanksgiving as well?
- joco, manchester, NH

Reading comprehension is not very good at times, I guess. This is a long-time program with more refugees in 2002 than last year. It is non-partisan. The Manchester welfare commissioner said they don't take welfare, certainly not as often as the good old-fashioned Americans in Manchester do.
- Steve B, Derry

Oooh! Scary swarthy people! Ooooh!

Get a grip and get a life. Immigrants have always been a large part of what makes America the greatest nation on earth.

Of course, the "yeah, but Irish and French-Canadians were different than Somalis and Bosnians" crap is coming soon...
- Rick, Manchester

We must put an end this madness! We are BROKE and FED UP this - this lunacy. If we must help them then give them a rifle and a copy of the Declaration of Independence.
- Biff, Canterbury

I am saddened that there are so many xenophobic comments. The article clearly stated that refugees are not taking many resources from the local community and the jobs that they get are available because many locals don’t want to do them. Diversity enriches our communities and we need more in New Hampshire.
- Karen, Sutton

Dear Scott,

Refugee resettlement isn’t an issue that should be characterized as conservative vs. liberal. We are the United States of America and our country was based on the founding principles of providing those who are persecuted, escaping war, famine, or even death a safe haven. Think about the pilgrims.

Like many Americans, we all trace our roots back to immigration, to our relatives who came to this country before us. You may find this hard to believe, but every wave of immigrants, including your own forefathers, faced discrimination. Do you think the Irish were welcome with open arms? Do you think the Italians were greeted with celebrations? No, they weren’t. But that doesn’t change the fact that eventually, everyone with name McDonald or Rossi became and were accepted as American.

Secondly, these aren’t illegal aliens, get it right. They are here, sponsored by our government, under both Republican and Democratic administrations, because they are looking for the American Dream.

By the way, if you supported the Iraq war, then let’s pay some respect to those Iraqi immigrants who are here, because many of them cooperated and worked with us, so any argument to the contrary is just being hypocritical.
- Raul, Manchester NH

first let me say that i feel bad for what these refugees have been through and i hope they can better their lives over here. that being said when is manchester going to say enough is enough. we keep getting the vast majority of refugees and we cannot afford to take any more. i'd love to know how many have been resettled in nashua or salem, etc.

they are putting such a strain on manchetser's resources and the citizens of manchester foot the bill . they do come here with a little money but no where near what it cost to get them settled and on their own. plus they help drag our school test scores down because they are counted in no child left behind formula.

we know that mayor guinta did nothing to try and stop them from being sent here but maybe mayor elct gatsas could make this one of his priorities.

and as far as lutheran services goes we should tell them we can't take any more!! actually we should tell lutheran services we don't need them(lutheran services) at all-they are the ones placing all the refugees here.
- bill, manchester

Sorry I do not agree with this in the least the enemy is living among us as it is! But these people bring their ill manners, sickness, and everything else to this country we do not need them getting free benefits, stealing our jobs, living in filth and having no manners! They walk in front of you, do not know how to drive, speak in their native tongue and laugh, stare, etc... they should all be put on a boat and sunk in the middle of the ocean instead of freeloading off of the US!
- Misty, Concord, NH

why am I not surprised? This country is in trouble enough w/out adding another burden to the taxpayers. I can understand wanting/needing to leave war torn countries but we can't even take care of our own as it is. And Medicaid...they get Medicaid!!!! I haven't been to a doctor in nearly 2 years for lack of health insurance. And people fight a public option on insurance for the working citizens of this country. Disgusting.
- Mary, Thornton, NH

to all elected officials , plesae stop the bleeding from illegals and refugees
- jim robins, bedford

Scott, you sound like a racist, president Obama was never the one that initiated such program. Resttlement programs for refugess have been in place since the era of formal president bush so get your facts right before you rant. Besides, how's it feasible for refugess to occupy your positions? Most of these folks don't even speak english and you consider them to be a threat??? The fact that you consider them to be a threat as an American tells me you are either unambitious or a looser. To top it off, are you aware that these guys play a great role in our economy by paying taxes. For your information typical Americans collect more government assistance than refugees so don't even go there. Go to the Department of Health and Human Services and see who's the large bulk of individuals looking to get benefit from the state. Its better for a refugee to receive help than a crack head who cannot keep a stable job that ends up utilizing the assistance to commit crime.
Check your history and realize the evolution of the New World, open your brain and be wise.
- Ibzzo, Manchester

The evils of overpopulation. Nothing can be done about it, except to let nature take its course (Unless you subscribe to the Hitlerian version of how the world ought to be run. Not exactly an appealing alternative).

I think this is a pretty unbalanced piece - we're given the sugarcoated relief agency version only. Written by an Obamaite scrounging for the 2012 displaced persons vote?
- cheryl, hampton

I think the difference with Canada is that they accept immigrants with needed skills, especially high level skills. That's why even cities there that are mostly immigrant are low-crime...because they're skilled people who produce more than they take in taxpayer funded services. Here, it's the other way around. Unskilled immigrants who immediately and always will need subsidizing.
- Mike R., Bedford

They took our jobs!
- DM, Hampton

Our way of life in new hampshire is peacefull and you could not ask for a better place to reside or raise a family. I am honored that people who do not have the same type of utopia we have in our state, who have been persecuted there entire lives have the opportunity to experience such a wonderfull place and know what a good life is. to jack alex of manchester, i highly doubt that 500 new individuals coming to our country is going to make the stock market crash, i think that you can relax.
- andrew, CAMP LEJEUNE NC

Everyday I think"how much worse can it get?" and then I read this and want to puke.
- Marie, Hooksett

I can guess they are doing this to eventually have more democrat votes. Hey who wouldn't vote for more free services at the expense of people who work?
- Steve, Derry

Ah Give them a break. At least they are coming here legally. I don't mind giving a helping hand to people when they have some respect for our laws. Of course they might be wanting to go home after 4 years of Obama.
- Bill Stevens, Nashua, NH

This is a local issue as much as it is a national issue. Blaming Obama misses the point. The question that should be asked here is why are they being resettled here in NH and why are local tax dollars and services being used to help the refugees in their adjustment. The organizations, International Institute of New Hampshire and Lutheran Social Services of New England should have to explain to the taxpayers of Manchester, Concord and Laconia why their local services and tax dollars should have to be put toward helping refugees.
- Chris, Merrimack

Well David, Jack & Scott: I sure am glad that people don't all have your attitude! Since the VAST majority of people living in this country are either immigrants themselves, or descended form immigrants, I really fail to understand your holier-than-thou statements. The first members of my family started coming here in the early 1600's, the last in the late 1800's. Some folks in my husband's family were already HERE. We don't have a problem with legal immigrants: they usually have a much better work ethic and drive to succeed than other folks.

I think it's cool that we're still a place where the Statue of Liberty actually MEANS something!
- Donna S, Manchester

Jack - interesting that you chose not to include the very next statement from the article:
But, said Manchester Welfare Commissioner Paul Martineau, his office spent only $3,716 on refugees in its last budget, which totaled more than $1.1 million. "We really don't see them," he said of the refugees.
These programs have been going on for decades, when I was a child a family from Laos moved in next door to us, after being able to escape that war torn country. Almost all of the emotional and financial support for these families come from others who have been in their situation and have patriated themselves here in the United States already. There are additional programs that come into play with local churches. Very few of our government / local resources go to these people once they have arrived and been placed in an apartment.

But it's good to see the ignorance and racism is alive in this country. For a moment there I thought the people who have the freedoms not be in the middle of a battlezone once they walk out their front door would gladly do what they can to reach out to others. Silly me.
And the family from Laos - 7 people moved into a home that the previous American owners left because they felt it was too small for 4. The Laotians were grateful for the few things they had, worked hard to support and educate their family and were the best neighbors and friends we ever had.
- Deborah, Manchester

I work for a human service agency in Manchester, and have worked with many individuals who have come to Manchester from other countries to find a new live for themselves and their families. I have only found them to be grateful to be here, very hardworking, and very willing to assimilate. I as a conservative leaning man, and can easily imagine what my view would be if I had not had this experience. All of our families have immigrated here at some point, mine on the Mayflower a few hundred years ago, the local economy was not so great then either.
- Ken, Bow

I wonder where these refuges fall under in the new healthcare plan. Will they be forced to by government sponsored insurance like the rest of us?
- Scott, Manchester

Scott in Manchester, not how well "read" you are but this has been occuring long before the Obama administration. To the others I say, "if you don't like it" vote to change it. Oh no, wait I would rather just complain about the "them" people
- Ernesto Pinder, Manchester

this is ridiculous! There are people in our city that were born and raised here and can't get the assistance they need becasue of hard economic times yet these refugee's come here and live off our Government for five months? there has to be a way to stop this. The American dream is all well and good, but in a time when Americans can't reach that dream why should foriengers?
- Jim, manchester

Scott from Manchester posted "We have enough illigal alliens here we do not need 60,000 more that want to collect our money and take our jobs. What will it take to stop this."

Fact--these immigrants are LEGAL, not illegal.

Fact-"Typically, refugees do not access federal assistance for very long." Can the same be said for some Americans on the dole year after year, generation after generation?

Fact-Manchester Welfare Commission spent only $3,716 on refugees in its last budget, which totaled more than $1.1 million. The rest went to Americans--how long have those people been receiving welfare and our tax money?

Fact-With the exception of Native Americans, we are all immigrants or descendents of immigrants.

Where are the protests in NH against ILLEGAL immigration--that is the problem, not legal immigration.
- Will, Auburn

Josh in Manchester wrote: "yay! Good to see the American dream is alive and well in nh! I wish the best for everybody who works hard and dreams for something better for themselves and their families!"

I would agree with Josh on this one so long as those refugees streaming in here plan on actually working rather than looking for free* handouts, as well as taking the necessary steps to learn about our country and it's history as they strive to become American Citizens. Maybe they could end up being good role models for those millions of illegal immigrants about to get free* health care who are the same ones pulling out their free* WIC checks at the grocery store as they send text messages to their friends on their Blackberries. What's the incentive to become a Naturalized Citizen again?

* - "free" translates to "provided by the US government at the expense of the individual liberty of the nation's taxpayers."
- Mike, Temple

How about making a change. Anyone who, like the Lutheran church, wants to support or sponsor someone coming into this country, has to pay for this person or persons welfare. From housing to medical bills, until these people become citizens.
- Kathy, Manchester

Scott, Manchester and Jack Alex -

This policy and the majority of the refugees arriving here pre-date the Obama administration - so stop turning this into a partisan issue that it isn't.

And last I looked neither "Scott" nor "Jack" were native American names. So either you or your ancestors were immigrants once - perhaps they even fled some other place for a better life here.

That is the American way. If you really don't like it, find out where you came from and go back!
- Leon, Manchester

I think it's great...in the end it will only serve to strengthen our community. Most refugees work extremely hard to "make it" in this country, doing work it citizens are too "good" to do. We are all part of the human race. Maybe you who espouse hatred should take a flight with the astronauts and see how tiny our planet really is, and how we are all dependent upon one another. Don't forget, all of us here are here because SOMEONE, at SOME TIME, emigrated to the USA!!!!!
- Eulogia, Chester

In an article about refugees/NH, it would have been nice to include the viewpoint of any of these refugees past/present that have settled in NH- you don't get much of an idea of the overall success of this partnership.
- Pete, NJ

Keep them coming the doors to the usa are wide open! The american dream is for everyone not just cranky white people like Jack Alex.
- juan, manchester

WOW- is all I can say about these comments. Do you know how your Grandparents, Great Grandparents, etc came to this country? Except for the Native Americans everyone of us has roots from another country.. Learn some of the history of Manchester and the many many countries that arrived here for a better life a century ago.
- Jenna, Mancester

it's nice to see how they will recieve money for housing and medical food stamps too.when my husband came here 8 years ago with his daughter he recieved nothing at all he worked two jobs to put her through school.was a "model citizen" and then was told he had to leave the country that he loved so much.i guess thats what happens when you play by the rules and don't want to be a burdon to the people.
- mary, manchester

I know of many refugees who remain on social assistance and don't bother to get a job. Where do you think this money is coming from? The workers of course. I understand they need a better life, but we can't afford to take any more one right now. There are not enough jobs to keep American citizens employed. We are bursting at the seams. Give the American people a break and stop the flow of people who many have lied about their way of life at home to cut through the process quicker and get the label of refugee. Please stop this, we can't afford it right now. Illegal immigrants are thumbing their nose at our system and laws and collect our money and now we're taking on a health care that will pay for illegals as well. God help us.
- D. Morris, Nashua

Send them back - So I can stay
- JC, Nashua

Congrats and welcome to NH. You will have no problem surpassing our overweight, lazy citizens in the job force. As for your kids..........they will be at the top of their class in a few years. Your going to love it here!!!!!!!! God bless America!!
- Jake, Manchester

America is enriched by immigrants. But in the past they came on their own looking to become Americans.

Large numbers of people from very foreign cultures who move here together by official decree have a very different motivation. The results we can expect will most likely be similar to other forced migrations: Unhappiness and strife.

I wish these people the best, but doubt it will be good for them or our community.
- Peter, Manchester

The sooner the present administration is voted out, the sooner we will recover from the economic mess they caused in the country.
Bringing in these refugees only adds further fuel to the fire. The do gooders have got to ease off and give us a chance to recover.
- Fred Walker, Keene, NH

Once again President OBama is leting more individuals into our country. We have enough illigal alliens here we do not need 60,000 more that want to collect our money and take our jobs. What will it take to stop this
- Scott, Manchester

"local districts are responsible for the bulk of their education costs, receive medical and financial assistance from the federal government. That includes a one-time payout of $450, at least five months help with rent and utilities, food stamps and Medicaid coverage they've been extended on those programs can seek local welfare assistance"

They're coming here to the US in the middle of a recession and the toughest times since 1983, and just what are they expecting to live on and where?

This just wants me to throw up my arms and tear my hair out.

Could someone tell me what lunatic in the immigration or the state department is responsible for this program so we can fit them for a straight jacket and rubber room?
- Jack Alex, Manchester

yay! Good to see the american dream is alive and well in nh! I wish the best for everybody who works hard and dreams for something better for themselves and their families!
- josh, manchester

And why Manchester of all places? Anyone ever see what happened to Lewiston, Maine? Is that what we're in for?
- David Goss, Manchester