Ibadah / Acts of Worship

Serving Iftar and Suhoor to Those in Need

Ramadan is a time of devotion, self-discipline, and generosity. As millions of Muslims around the world observe fasting from dawn to sunset, the need for safe, hygienic, and efficient kitchen operations becomes even more crucial. At Our Islamic Charity, we understand the responsibility that comes with preparing Iftar and Suhoor for the needy. Our commitment to kitchen hygiene and safety is unwavering, and we take extra precautions to ensure that every meal we serve meets the highest standards.

The Importance of Kitchen Hygiene and Safety During Ramadan

In any kitchen, hygiene and safety are fundamental, but during Ramadan, they become even more critical. The intensity of food preparation increases, and the cooks, who are themselves fasting, require a comfortable and well-organized working environment.

We have developed a structured kitchen hygiene and safety checklist that we review every three months across all our charity kitchens. However, as Ramadan approaches, we enforce stricter measures to accommodate the increased demand and ensure that our kitchens operate smoothly.

Some of the essential aspects of our kitchen hygiene protocols include:

  • Strict Food Handling Procedures: Ensuring that all ingredients are properly washed, stored, and prepared following hygiene standards.
  • Personal Hygiene for Staff: Regular handwashing, use of gloves, and clean uniforms for all cooks and kitchen staff.
  • Safe Cooking Practices: Monitoring food temperatures, preventing cross-contamination, and ensuring proper food storage.
  • Regular Equipment and Facility Inspections: Checking stoves, ovens, refrigerators, and all utensils to ensure functionality and cleanliness.

Preparing for Ramadan: A Detailed Checklist

Since the volume of food prepared for Iftar and Suhoor significantly increases during Ramadan, we take additional steps to ensure our operations run smoothly.

1. Reviewing Kitchen Conditions and Safety Measures

Before Ramadan begins, we conduct a comprehensive review of our kitchens, identifying areas that need improvement. Our team double-checks food storage facilities, ventilation, and overall cleanliness to prevent any issues that may arise during peak cooking hours.

2. Training and Briefing for Kitchen Staff

To ensure that everyone is prepared, we organize training sessions for our kitchen staff. These sessions focus on food hygiene, safety precautions, and effective meal preparation techniques. Since our cooks are fasting themselves, we emphasize time management and ways to maintain energy levels while working long hours.

3. Optimizing Meal Plans Based on Suhoor and Iftar Timing

Precise timing is crucial when preparing meals for Suhoor and Iftar. We create structured meal plans that align with fasting hours, ensuring that food is ready and served fresh at the correct times. Our menus are designed to provide balanced nutrition, keeping in mind the needs of those fasting.

4. Assessing Food and Equipment Requirements

With an increased demand for food during Ramadan, we stock up on essential ingredients in advance. We ensure that all kitchen equipment is in optimal condition to handle large-scale meal preparations efficiently.

Ramadan 2025: Continuing Our Mission to Serve the Needy

As we approach Ramadan 2025, we have already begun preparations to ensure that our operations are well-organized and effective. Our goal remains the same–to serve Iftar and Suhoor to those in need with dignity and care. Through meticulous planning and unwavering dedication, we strive to make Ramadan a time of nourishment and hope for the less fortunate.

Your support can make a difference. By donating cryptocurrency or giving zakat in Ramadan, you can help us reach even more people in need. Together, we can uphold the true spirit of Ramadan–compassion, generosity, and community.

May Allah bless everyone who contributes to feeding the fasting and ensure that our efforts bring comfort to those in need. Let us continue to serve with sincerity and dedication in Ramadan 2025 and beyond.

Food and NutritionHealthcareIbadah / Acts of WorshipReportWhat We Do

Preparing for Ramadan: A Month-Long Effort

As an Islamic charity, we consider it our sacred duty to help the needy and poor, as commanded by the Quran. This Ramadan, we reaffirm our commitment to feeding the less fortunate by preparing meals for Iftar and Suhoor. With careful planning and unwavering dedication, we ensure that those in need have access to warm, nutritious food during this holy month.

Every year, we begin preparations 30 days before Ramadan, ensuring that everything is in place for our large-scale Iftar and Suhoor programs. This involves equipping our kitchens, securing essential ingredients, and organizing our team of volunteers. One of the most important steps in this process is obtaining high-quality wheat flour, which serves as the foundation for many traditional dishes.

This year, we have successfully purchased 4 tons of flour, which has been distributed among 10 kitchens across the Middle East, the Mediterranean region, and Central Africa. With this essential ingredient, we are fully prepared to provide wholesome and culturally appropriate meals to thousands of people in need.

Flour: The Heart of Iftar and Suhoor

Flour-based dishes are a staple in many cultures, making it an invaluable resource for our Ramadan meal programs. With just wheat flour dough, we can prepare a variety of nutritious and comforting dishes tailored to regional preferences. From samosa, fatayer, and manakish in the Middle East to khobz, chapati, and luqaimat in Africa, this simple ingredient allows us to create meals that nourish both body and soul.

By focusing on traditional recipes, we ensure that every Iftar and Suhoor is not only fulfilling but also deeply familiar and comforting to those we serve. This variety also helps us cater to different dietary needs, making sure that our meals remain inclusive and accessible to all.

Bitcoin Donation: Powering Charitable Efforts in Ramadan 2025

One of the most remarkable aspects of this year’s Ramadan preparations is how we acquired the 4 tons of flour–through Bitcoin donations. The growing acceptance of cryptocurrency for humanitarian efforts has allowed us to expand our reach and enhance the efficiency of our charity work. In previous years, we primarily relied on stablecoins for transactions, but now, we are seeing Bitcoin becoming a more direct and viable method for aiding the needy.

We bought with a food supplier via Bitcoin. Your donated Bitcoins enabled us to purchase 4 tons of flour for Ramadan.

This milestone marks a significant shift in how “crypto for good” is evolving from a mere slogan to a tangible reality. Through your generous Bitcoin donations, we have been able to purchase essential food supplies that will directly impact the lives of those who rely on us. Your support has not only helped us feed the hungry but has also demonstrated the true potential of cryptocurrency as a force for positive change.

Gratitude and Blessings for Ramadan 2025

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our donors whose contributions make this initiative possible. May Allah bless you abundantly for your generosity and reward you for every meal that brings comfort to a fasting soul. As we move forward with our Iftar and Suhoor programs, we invite more donors to join us in this mission. Your support, whether through Bitcoin donations or other forms of charity, ensures that we can continue to provide for those in need.

This Ramadan, let’s come together to make a difference. Let’s transform our intentions into action, our donations into sustenance, and our compassion into lasting impact. May Allah bless us all in this sacred month and beyond.

Food and NutritionIbadah / Acts of WorshipProjectsReportWhat We DoZakat

What Was the Mission of the Prophet of Islam and How Can We Honor It Today?

The mission of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is a cornerstone of Islamic faith and a guiding light for Muslims worldwide. It is a story of divine revelation, unwavering faith, and a call to justice, compassion, and unity. As members of Our Islamic Charity, we believe that understanding the Prophet’s mission is not just about reflecting on the past but also about taking actionable steps to embody his teachings in our lives today. In this article, we’ll explore the profound significance of the Prophet’s mission, the events surrounding it, and how we can honor this blessed legacy by serving the poor, the needy, and our global Muslim community.

The Divine Call: The Beginning of the Prophet’s Mission

The mission of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) began in the year 610 CE in the Cave of Hira, near Mecca. At the age of 40, the Prophet received the first revelation from Allah through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). The words, “Iqra” (Read), marked the beginning of a transformative journey that would change the course of history. The first verses of Surah Al-Alaq (96:1-5) were revealed, emphasizing the importance of knowledge, faith, and the worship of the Allah (One True God).

“Recite in the name of your Lord who created – Created man from a clinging substance. Recite, and your Lord is the most Generous – Who taught by the pen – Taught man that which he knew not.” Quran (96:1-5)

Before this moment, the Arabian Peninsula was steeped in ignorance (Jahiliyyah), characterized by tribalism, injustice, and moral decay. The Prophet’s mission was to guide humanity out of this darkness and into the light of Islam. His role was not just as a messenger but as a mercy to all creation (Rahmatan lil-Alameen), as described in the Quran.

The Core of the Prophet’s Mission: Justice, Compassion, and Unity

The mission of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was multifaceted. It was a call to worship Allah alone, to establish justice, to care for the vulnerable, and to unite humanity under the banner of faith. The Prophet’s teachings emphasized the importance of compassion (rahmah), charity (sadaqah), and social justice. He tirelessly worked to uplift the poor, protect the rights of women, and bridge the divides between tribes and communities.

One of the most powerful aspects of his mission was his focus on the ummah–the global Muslim community. He taught that all believers are equal, regardless of race, wealth, or status. This principle of unity is something we at Our Islamic Charity strive to uphold every day. By distributing sweets and unleavened bread to the poor and needy, we aim to embody the Prophet’s teachings of generosity and solidarity.

Celebrating the Prophet’s Mission: A Day of Reflection and Action

Every year, Muslims around the world celebrate the blessed day of the Prophet’s mission. It is a time to reflect on his life, his struggles, and his unwavering commitment to spreading the message of Islam. At Our Islamic Charity, we mark this day by deepening our understanding of the Prophet’s mission and taking concrete steps to honor his legacy.

One of the ways we do this is by preparing and distributing sweets and unleavened bread to those in need. These simple acts of kindness are a reflection of the Prophet’s teachings.

Prophet said, “The best among you are those who bring the greatest benefit to mankind.” By feeding the hungry and bringing joy to the hearts of the poor, we are following in his footsteps.

Our kitchens, spread across different countries, are a testament to the unity of the Muslim ummah. Muslim men and women come together to prepare these meals, ensuring that no one is left behind. This is not just charity; it is a celebration of our shared faith and a reminder of the Prophet’s mission to create a just and compassionate society.

How You Can Be Part of This Mission

The mission of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is not confined to the past–it is a living, breathing call to action for all of us. As Muslims, we have a responsibility to carry forward his legacy by serving others and upholding the values he championed. Here are a few ways you can contribute:

  • Donate to Support the Needy: Whether it’s through traditional means or modern methods like cryptocurrency donations, your contributions can make a significant difference in the lives of the poor and needy. Every dollar, every coin, every satoshi, is a step toward fulfilling the Prophet’s mission.
  • Volunteer Your Time: Join us in our kitchens or in our distribution efforts. Your hands can help prepare the meals that bring joy to countless families.
  • Spread Awareness: Share the story of the Prophet’s mission with others. Educate your community about the importance of charity, unity, and compassion.
  • Live by His Teachings: Strive to embody the Prophet’s values in your daily life. Be kind, be just, and be a source of good in the world.

A Legacy of Light and Hope

The mission of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is a beacon of light that continues to guide us today. It is a call to action, a reminder of our duty to serve Allah and humanity. At Our Islamic Charity, we are committed to honoring this legacy by serving the poor, uplifting the needy, and uniting the Muslim ummah. You can visit our charitable projects and make your donation with your heart’s intention.

As we celebrate this blessed day, let us remember that the Prophet’s mission is not just a historical event–it is a living, breathing call to action. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can be the embodiment of his teachings. Together, we can ensure that his mission continues to shine brightly in our hearts and in our actions.

Join us in this journey. Let’s honor the Prophet’s mission by being the change we wish to see in the world. Allahu Akbar!

Ibadah / Acts of WorshipReligion

Ramadan Fasting Rules According to Islamic Sharia

Fasting during Ramadan is a fundamental act of worship for Muslims worldwide. However, not everyone is required to fast due to valid exemptions outlined in Islamic teachings. If you or someone you know is unable to fast, this guide will help clarify who is excused, what they must do instead, and how fidya and kaffarah work.

Who Is Exempt from Fasting in Ramadan?

Islam recognizes that fasting may not be feasible for certain individuals. The following groups are permitted to skip fasting and compensate in other ways:

Aged and Elderly Individuals

Older Muslims who suffer from weakness or chronic illnesses that make fasting harmful to their health are excused. For example, an elderly man with severe arthritis who struggles to move without assistance would not be required to fast. Instead, he must offer fidya, a form of compensation, by feeding a poor person for each missed day of fasting.

The Sick and Medically Unfit

Muslims who have illnesses that prevent them from fasting are also exempt. This includes individuals with diabetes, heart disease, or kidney failure, where fasting could worsen their condition. A person undergoing chemotherapy, for example, cannot be expected to fast as it may compromise their immune system. A doctor’s guidance is essential in such cases. If their condition is temporary, they must make up for missed fasts later. If it is chronic, they must pay fidya.

Pregnant and Nursing Women

Expecting and breastfeeding mothers may not fast if they fear harm for themselves or their baby. A pregnant woman experiencing severe nausea and dehydration is not obligated to fast. Similarly, a nursing mother whose milk supply may decrease due to fasting can postpone it. These women can either make up for the fasts later or pay fidya, depending on their situation.

Menstruating and Postpartum Women

Women on their menstrual cycle or experiencing postnatal bleeding are strictly forbidden from fasting. They are required to make up for the missed fasts once they are able.

Travelers (Musafir)

Muslims who embark on long journeys can skip fasting if it causes hardship. A businessperson traveling internationally or a student moving to another city for exams can delay fasting and make up for it later.

People Engaged in Hard Labor

Those whose profession demands extreme physical exertion, such as construction workers or farmers working under the scorching sun, may be permitted to break their fast if fasting causes unbearable hardship. However, they must make up for the fasts on days when they are not working under such conditions.

Children Below the Age of Puberty

Fasting is only obligatory for Muslims who have reached puberty. A 10-year-old child, for example, is encouraged to fast but is not obligated until they become mature.

Fidya: Compensation for Those Who Cannot Fast

For those who are permanently unable to fast due to age or chronic illness, Islam prescribes fidya–feeding a needy person for each missed fast. The exact amount varies by region, as it is based on the average cost of a daily meal. At Our Islamic Charity, we calculate this based on local food prices to ensure accuracy and fairness.

Here you can learn more about the fidya(ransom) or pay fidya with cryptocurrency.

Kaffarah: Atonement for Breaking the Fast Intentionally

If a person deliberately breaks their fast without a valid excuse, they must offer kaffarah, a serious form of expiation. This requires either fasting for 60 consecutive days or feeding 60 needy people. For instance, if a Muslim intentionally eats during the day in Ramadan without a valid reason, they must either undertake this rigorous fasting or provide meals for the poor as compensation. It is always best to fast and seek Allah’s forgiveness, but kaffarah ensures that the obligation is not ignored.

We have received this question many times: Can I skip Ramadan fasting and pay the atonement (kaffarah)? A Muslim cannot simply choose not to fast in Ramadan and pay kaffarah instead. As Muslims, we do not recommend this and if you can, it is better to fast, but in the end the short answer is: Yes.

Here you can learn more about the kaffarah or pay kaffarah with cryptocurrency.

The Importance of Fasting and Seeking Allah’s Mercy

Fasting is a great act of devotion that strengthens faith and self-discipline. For those who can fast, it remains an obligation that should not be taken lightly. However, for those who genuinely cannot, Islam offers compassionate alternatives through fidya and kaffarah. By fulfilling these obligations, we ensure that the spirit of Ramadan is upheld, and the needy in our communities benefit.

If you or someone you know needs assistance in paying fidya or kaffarah, Our Islamic Charity facilitates donations that go directly towards feeding those in need. May Allah accept our efforts and grant us mercy in this blessed month.

 

Ibadah / Acts of WorshipKaffarahReligion

Help Palestine: Cryptocurrency Aid for Humanitarian Crisis Relief

The dawn of January 2025 brought a fragile ceasefire to Palestine, ending months of relentless conflict and destruction. Families who had been displaced began their journey back to what was once home, only to face a harrowing reality: there is no city to return to, just remnants of lives torn apart. The once vibrant neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble, leaving behind a landscape of despair and ruin.

Returning to Ruins: Life in a Shattered City

Imagine walking into a city where the streets are no longer streets, and homes are barely recognizable piles of rubble. Families who once lived comfortably now find themselves wandering through what remains of their past lives. Without water, electricity, or gas, even basic necessities feel out of reach.

Kitchens lie in ruins, and there’s no food to prepare even if they were functional. The air is heavy with the chill of winter, and the nights are colder than ever. Warm clothes are scarce, often worn and unclean, while bathing facilities are nearly non-existent, forcing families to endure long queues for rationed water.

Surviving the Harsh Winter Without Essentials

Winter has brought unimaginable suffering to the people of Gaza. Gaza is one of the eastern regions of Palestine that has suffered serious damage. Without heating, families huddle together under what little they have to fight the biting cold. The absence of clean water has made daily life a constant struggle. Simple needs like bathing, cooking, and washing have turned into insurmountable challenges, leaving many vulnerable to illness. Warmth is a luxury few can afford, and humanitarian aid, though a lifeline, is far from sufficient to meet the overwhelming needs.

A Call for Compassion and Action

The Urgent Need for Clean Water, Dry Food, and Warm Clothes

The people of Gaza face an uphill battle. With no homes to return to, no safe water to drink, and no steady supply of food, life here is a constant test of resilience. Yet, even in the face of such devastation, there is hope. Together, we can extend a helping hand and offer urgent aid to ease their suffering. By donating essentials such as warm clothes, food, and funds for emergency shelters, we can make a tangible difference in their lives.

This winter, let us stand together as a global community. The people of Gaza need us now more than ever. Your contribution, no matter how small, can help rebuild not just homes but also lives. Let’s turn compassion into action and ensure that no family is left to face this harsh reality alone.

Our Services: A Commitment to Humanity

Our Islamic Charity has been active in various regions, providing essential services to those in need. In Gaza, we are focusing on delivering clean water, dry food, and warm clothing–the most urgent needs right now. But our work doesn’t stop there. We are also setting up emergency shelters, distributing hygiene kits, and providing medical aid to those injured or ill. Our goal is to address both the immediate and long-term needs of the communities we serve.

In addition to Gaza, we are working in other parts of Palestine and beyond, offering humanitarian aid to those affected by conflict and natural disasters. Whether it’s building emergency shelters, providing clean water, or distributing food packs, our mission is to alleviate suffering and restore dignity to those who have lost everything.

The Path Forward: Rebuilding Lives and Communities

The road to recovery for Gaza and other war-torn regions is long and fraught with challenges. The United Nations estimates that rebuilding Gaza alone could cost over $80 billion, with clearing the 50 million tons of rubble potentially taking decades. But while the task is daunting, it is not impossible. With your support, we can help rebuild lives and communities, one step at a time.

Your donations–whether in traditional currency or cryptocurrency–can provide the resources needed to make a real difference. Together, we can ensure that families in Gaza and beyond have access to clean water, nutritious food, warm clothing, and safe shelter. We can help them rebuild their homes, their lives, and their futures.

At Our Islamic Charity, we are committed to providing urgent aid to the people of Gaza. Together, we can deliver clean water, warm clothes, and food aid to those who need it most. Let’s act now to bring relief to our brothers and sisters in Palestine. Every donation counts.

Food and NutritionHealthcareHumanitarian AidIbadah / Acts of WorshipReportWhat We Do