Just a quarter mile from the bustling intersection of Scottsville Road and Lover’s Lane in the heart of Bowling Green’s commercial district lives a family of six who have never seen light switches, electric stoves, or can openers.

All their possessions are stuffed into two brightly striped plastic bags and a few backpacks. They speak no English.

This is the first day in America for Na Reh, his wife Htar Mu and their four children. They are among the 503,000 refugees who have been displaced by violent clashes between the ruling military junta and ethnic insurgents in the Southeast Asian country of Burma.

“They don’t know how to open salt,” says Zeir Bajric, an International Center employee assigned to help the family move into their new apartment. “They don’t recognize packages.” He pours salt into his hand, extending his arm to show them, then tosses it in the sink.

Bajric hurries off, telling Na Reh he will check on them in three days. The father smiles and nods; it is clear that the words are lost on him.

As his parents explore the kitchen, 15-year-old Joseph Reh wanders listlessly into the living room. He stretches out on a couch in the corner and places his arm over his eyes.