For Manal Younan, it was more than a reunion but the beginning of a new life in America for her, her husband and her five children.

"I've put everything behind me since I left Iraq and I don't worry about anything now," Manal told 10News through her sister Nawal Matti, an interpreter. "I just want to make it to the United States."

Matti, who became a U.S. citizen in January, said she has waited for this moment for 12 years.

"I'm really excited to see her. She's my oldest sister," said Matti before she gave her sister a kiss on the cheek.

Younan and her family escaped from Zakhow, Iraq more than a year ago. They found refuge in Istanbul, Turkey until they were allowed last Friday to begin their journey to the United States so they could reunite with relatives.

Two weeks ago, President Obama authorized the U.S. State Department to allow the admission of 80,000 refugees into the country.

"They're not coming here with high expectations. They're not coming here for a job. They're coming here to save their lives," said Lejla Voloder, who oversees the resettlement program for Catholic Charities.

About 4,500 refugees are expected to arrive in San Diego over the next year. Many will likely come to Catholic Charities for some kind of assistance, from housing and employment to medical check-ups.

A majority of refugees are expected to be Iraqis who are Catholic, who are known as Chaldeans. They have escaped Iraq to avoid persecution for their beliefs.

Many Chaldeans settle in East County to be with other Chaldeans. El Cajon is the second largest community for Iraqis after Detroit, Mich.

The new refugees are designated refugees for one year. After four years, they become permanent residents and then they can apply for citizenship.

Reports from the State Department revealed Chaldeans have become the fastest-growing refugee community in San Diego. Burmese are the second largest group followed by Somalis.

Editor's note:
ICMC is pleased to celebrate the arrival of Manal Younan to San Diego, as one of the many beneficiary's served by the ICMC Overseas Processing Entity in Istanbul, Turkey.