A large refugee family from Africa is grieving and struggling, following an accident on the LBJ Freeway that killed the man of the house.

They come from a tribe so small, hardly anyone in North Texas speaks their language.

When Signe & Bilay and their nine children arrived in Dallas 8 months ago none of them spoke English --- what they did have was hope.

Three months ago, their tenth child was born. They named her Mary because she was born in America.

Bilay’s dream was his children go to school. In the United States he knew that they would get an education and learn to read.

But coming home from his dishwasher’s job Friday night, the father missed his bus. He was killed while crossing LBJ freeway on foot.

Signe and Bilay could have supported the family on their combined salaries, but now there are too many mouths to feed – and not enough money coming in.

Now six girls share one room in the crowded 2 bedroom apartment initially rented with federal funds. After a few months, federal law requires refugees support themselves.

The local Eritrean community is trying to help, but hardly any speak this family’s language.

The children are learning English. Seven are old enough to attend school - and the oldest sister works part time when she is not studying.

Ask about her dreams, and its as if her father still lives.

“I was hoping get an education, get good grades and get a good job, Mimi says.

Only one photo of their dad adorns the walls.

They hide the other pictures, because when the younger children see them, they cry.

The family is Christian and is praying that – somehow- Bilay’s dream can be realized.

A fund has been set up to help the African family.

Money can be contributed to the “Bilay Ibit family fund” at any Wells Fargo Bank.

E-mail greaves@wfaa.com