Masjid Al Falaah, a Mosque in Birmingham, with the support of aid agency Islamic Relief UK delivered blessed Qurbani meat to some of the most vulnerable communities in Birmingham last week.
Around 50 vulnerable families in the Birmingham region were helped with food packs of Qurbani meat and other items (rice, pasta, butter, tinned tomato, onions, and orange juice). The meat was also distributed to Syrian refugee families, two separate domestic violence women’s refuges – which shelter over 50 women and their children – and a homeless shelter, where it fed more than 100 people.
Over the past four months, during the lockdown, over 3,500 food packs from Masjid Al Falaah have been distributed in the area by a team of dedicated volunteers.
Qurbani means sacrifice. Every year during the Islamic holy month of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims around the world slaughter an animal – a goat, sheep, cow or camel – to commemorate the sacrifice that the Prophet Ibrahim was willing to make. Many Muslims will pay to charity for this to be done on their behalf.
The meat of the sacrificial animal is divided into three portions. At least one-third of this goes to people who are in vulnerable situations and need assistance.
Mr Abdul Rauf Roghey, Trustee of Masjid Al Falaah said: “Following on from the COVID-19 Lockdown, the need for food provisions has been rife and at the forefront of our community commitment. This kind gesture by Islamic Relief and their donors to distribute Qurbani meat in the UK will help alleviate the hardships of our most vulnerable during these difficult times.
“We are glad to partner with Islamic Relief who have given us the opportunity to be part of this fantastic opportunity.
“As representative of a Muslim organisation, it gives me huge pleasure that we are leading from the frontline to help the most vulnerable of our society regardless of their religious or ethnic background.”
Tufail Hussain, Director of Islamic Relief UK said: “Masjid Al Falaah are doing incredible work in Birmingham, helping vulnerable families, refugees, women affected by domestic violence and the homeless. We are delighted to be working with Masjid Al Falaah and help feed some of the most vulnerable through the charitable duty of Qurbani.
“It is the duty of Muslims all over the world to help others through their Qurbani, and every year our generous donors also choose to help people here in the UK. This generosity will go towards making a huge difference during this difficult time.”
