As the temperatures continue to plunge dangerously, the efforts of Islamic Relief Canada are being focused this year in 28 cities and regions across the nation.
Islamic Relief Canada volunteers, London. Ontario
When winter started, winter Kits were packed and prepared at the London Muslim Mosque.. each one included a blanket, warm clothing, living essentials, and hygiene supplies. And they were labeled with the phrase “filled with hope”.
Hundreds of kits were distributed to those without proper protection or shelter, and to families in need.
“We got winter items like gloves, hats, hygiene products, jackets, blankets, and other stuff to give it to the unhoused people. We do this across Canada, as we started about five years ago.” Saimah Sarwar, regional coordinators in Islamic Relief Canada, London
The organization also helped in the crisis that took a place recently in British Colombia.
“We have a team in BC, and they’ve been helping with the fires all the flooding, and they’re still helping because there still is a big need there. Now it’s cold and a lot of e places are still able to get food and other needs” Saimah Sarwar, regional coordinators in Islamic Relief Canada, London
Islamic Relief Canada volunteers, at London Muslim Mosque
Sarwar explains the organization’s special campaign in London this month for Refugees from Afghanistan.
“We are working with some local dentists who have offered their services for Afghan refugees. They will be providing dental services, and we will be driving the patients from their home to the dentist, and drive them back home. If there’s language problem, we’re able to provide translators and stuff so that they can understand what’s happening”
As one of the five pillars of Islam, zakat is a religious duty for all Muslims who meet the necessary criteria of wealth to help the needy but Sadaqah is another term, and it’s also about giving.
“It’s a voluntary charitable act towards another being, whether love, compassion, faith, or being generous. It is not necessary that these acts be physical or monetary. Good deeds such as smiling, or offering a helping hand, are viewed as acts of Sadaqah. It’s all about giving, from everyone to anyone .. and this is what we always need to see in our community, city, and our beloved country Canada.” Azoz Monther, student at Fanshawe College and a volunteer at different places in London.
Islamic Relief Canada doesn’t just provide aid, they save and transform the lives of communities in more than 40 countries across the globe.
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