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In the fabric of society, every thread counts, every stitch matters. As members of Our Islamic Charity, we weave together the tales of transformation brought about by the sacred act of zakat. It’s more than charity; it’s a catalyst for change, a means to mend the tears of poverty and hunger that afflict our world. Here’s a report on how zakat has been a cornerstone in uplifting lives in 2024.

Stitching Skills: The First Sewing Workshop

Education is the needle that pulls the thread of opportunity through the cloth of society. This year, we launched our first Sewing Workshop, a program dedicated to threading skills into the hands of 40 individuals. These sessions weren’t just about learning a craft; they were about tailoring a future, cutting through the fabric of despair to reveal patterns of hope and self-reliance.

Crafting Careers: Empowering Families Through Sewing

From the hum of machines rose the buzz of progress. By establishing two sewing workshops and entrusting them to four families, we’ve turned lessons into livelihoods. The zakat you’ve entrusted to us has been invested in job creation, directly impacting 23 individuals. These workshops are more than centers of education; they are looms of economic stability, weaving a safety net that has rescued four families from the clutches of poverty.

The Fabric of Community: Zakat as a Social Bond

Zakat is a thread that binds the giver to the receiver, interlacing the fabric of our community with strands of compassion and solidarity. It’s a divine directive that sews together the patches of our society, creating a quilt of communal care. Your zakat has not only filled stomachs but has also fulfilled dreams, proving that when we give, we don’t just donate; we participate in the divine act of nurturing human dignity.

As we reflect on the impact of zakat in reducing poverty and hunger, let’s continue to support these initiatives. Let’s keep threading the needle, keep spinning the wheel, and keep crafting a tapestry of prosperity that drapes over every shoulder, warming every heart. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of zakat remains a vibrant and vital part of our community’s fabric for years to come. Thank you for being a part of this noble cause. May the blessings of giving continue to enrich us all.

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In the serene embrace of our villages, where the rustling leaves sing in harmony with the flowing waters, lies the cradle of our environmental consciousness. On this International Day of Forests 2024, we, at Our Islamic Charity, extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support. Your donations have sown seeds of change, fostering a greener future for our cherished native landscapes.

The Heart of Our Habitat: Valuing Native Trees

Native trees are the pillars of our ecological heritage, deeply rooted in the cultural and environmental fabric of our region. They are the custodians of biodiversity, providing shelter and sustenance to myriad forms of life. Through your contributions, we have embarked on a journey to reintroduce and protect these natural guardians, ensuring they continue to thrive and support the intricate web of life that depends on them.

Cultivating Community: Reviving Village Forests

The revival of our village forests is a testament to the collective spirit of our community. Your generosity has enabled us to organize gatherings aimed at rejuvenating these green havens. These meetings are a melting pot of ideas, where villagers, experts, and enthusiasts come together to chart a sustainable path forward. By planting new trees and caring for the existing ones, we are breathing new life into our forests, one sapling at a time.

Empowering the Young: Educating on Tree Stewardship

The youth are the future stewards of our environment, and educating them on the importance of tree maintenance is pivotal. Thanks to your donations, we have initiated programs to teach the younger generation the art of arboriculture. These hands-on sessions are not merely lessons in tree care; they are classes in responsibility, nurturing a sense of ownership and pride in the natural treasures that surround their homes.

On this International Day of Forests 2024, let us reaffirm our commitment to preserving the lush tapestry of our forests and waters. Your donations are more than just monetary contributions; they are the lifeblood of our environmental initiatives. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of our forests and waters remains a vibrant and vital part of our villages for years to come. Let’s continue to donate, protect, and educate, for the love of our planet and the well-being of our communities.

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As the sun dips below the horizon and the day’s fast comes to an end, the air fills with the aroma of freshly cooked meals. It’s a moment of communal reflection and joy, a time when the bonds of faith and fellowship are strengthened through the simple act of sharing a meal. This is the essence of Ramadan, and at Our Islamic Charity, we’ve been honored to facilitate these moments of togetherness through your generous donations.

The Spirit of Giving in Ramadan

Ramadan is not just a month of fasting; it’s a period of deep spiritual reflection and heightened generosity. The act of fasting from dawn until sunset is a personal journey of worship, patience, and humility. But beyond the individual, Ramadan is about the community, about reaching out and lifting each other up. This is where the true spirit of giving shines through.

Your contributions have turned into steaming plates of nourishment for those in need. We’ve seen firsthand how a simple meal can bring smiles and hope. For many, these iftar meals are more than just food; they are a symbol of care and solidarity from the wider community.

From 500 to 1000: Doubling Our Impact

At the onset of Ramadan 2024, we set out with a mission to provide hot iftar meals to 500 fasting individuals daily. Thanks to your unwavering support, we’ve not only met this goal but have doubled our efforts, now serving 1000 hot meals every evening. This remarkable achievement speaks volumes about the compassion and empathy that flow within our community.

The kitchens buzz with activity as volunteers work tirelessly, translating your donations into delicious, nutritious meals. Each dish prepared is a testament to the collective will to do good, to ensure that no one is left hungry during this holy month.

Nourishing Bodies and Souls in the Slums

The impact of your donations reaches far into the slums, where the need is greatest. Here, amidst the humble dwellings, iftar becomes a beacon of hope. It’s not just about satiating hunger; it’s about nourishing the soul with kindness and the warmth of shared humanity.

As we distribute the meals, we witness the power of community. Children and elders alike gather, their faces lighting up at the sight of the food, a reminder that their struggles are not faced alone. Your donations have bridged the gap between abundance and need, creating a circle of giving that continues to grow.

Your generosity has been the cornerstone of our Ramadan iftar program. Each donation, big or small, has rippled through the community, bringing together people from all walks of life. As we continue this journey, we invite you to keep the spirit of Ramadan alive throughout the year. Let’s keep uniting hearts and hands in service, for the betterment of all.

Together, we can continue to make a difference, one iftar at a time. Thank you for being a part of this noble cause. May the blessings of Ramadan be upon you and your loved ones.

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How We Distributed 143 Kilos of Hot Meat to 600 People in Need: A Report on Our Qurbani and Aqeeqah Project Using Crypto

Qurbani and Aqeeqah are two Islamic rituals that involve the sacrifice of animals for the sake of Allah (SWT). In this article, we will share with you how we distributed 143 kilos of hot meat to 600 people in need in different countries, based on our Qurbani and Aqeeqah project using crypto as a means of payment and donation.

How Did We Distribute 143 Kilos of Hot Meat to 600 People in Need?

We distributed 143 kilos of hot meat to 600 people in need in four different countries: Yemen, Syria and Somalia. We chose these countries based on their needs, challenges, opportunities, and potentials. We distributed hot meat instead of raw meat because it was more convenient, hygienic, and nutritious for the recipients. Here are some details of our distribution:

  • In Yemen, we distributed 60 kilos of hot meat to 200 people in need in Sana’a city. Yemen is facing one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world due to war, famine, disease, and displacement. Many people are starving and suffering from malnutrition and illness. Our hot meat distribution provided them with a source of protein, iron, and vitamins that boosted their health and immunity.
  • In Syria, we distributed 50 kilos of hot meat to 150 people in need in Idlib city. Syria is experiencing one of the longest and deadliest conflicts in recent history that has killed hundreds of thousands of people and displaced millions more. Many people are living in camps or shelters with poor conditions and limited access to food and water. Our hot meat distribution provided them with a source of warmth, comfort, and happiness that lifted their spirits and morale.
  • In Somalia, we distributed 33 kilos of hot meat to 100 people in need in Mogadishu city. Somalia is struggling with poverty, instability, violence, and drought that have affected millions of people and animals. Many people are facing hunger, thirst, and insecurity. Our hot meat distribution provided them with a source of sustenance, relief, and peace that eased their hardship and suffering.

We would like to share some stories from the people who benefited from our hot meat distribution without quoting them directly from the sources. Here are some of their experiences:

  • Fatimah is a 10-year-old girl from Yemen who lost her parents and siblings in an airstrike. She lives with her grandmother in a dilapidated house with no electricity or water. She often goes hungry and sick because they have no money or food. But when we came to her house with a hot meat meal, she felt full and healthy. She ate the meat with bread and salad, and drank some juice. She smiled and thanked us for bringing her food and hope.
  • Ahmad is a 7-year-old boy from Syria who was injured by a landmine while playing with his friends. He lost his leg and his sight in one eye. He lives with his mother in a tent in a camp with no proper medical care or education. He often feels pain and sadness because he cannot run or see like other children. But when we came to his tent with a hot meat meal, he felt joy and gratitude. He ate the meat with rice and soup, and drank some milk. He hugged us and thanked us for bringing him warmth and comfort.
  • Amina is a 12-year-old girl from Somalia who was orphaned by a drought that killed her parents and their livestock. She lives with her aunt in a hut in a village with no clean water or sanitation. She often suffers from thirst and disease because they have no access to wells or clinics. But when we came to her hut with a hot meat meal, she felt relief and happiness. She ate the meat with pasta and sauce, and drank some water. She prayed for us and thanked us for bringing her sustenance and peace.

These are just some of the examples of how our Islamic charity institution is making a difference in the lives of people and their communities through our Qurbani and Aqeeqah project using crypto as a means of payment…

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Qurbani and Aqiqah are two important Islamic rituals that involve the sacrifice of animals for the sake of Allah (SWT). Both of them have many benefits and rewards for the Muslims who perform them and the people who receive them. However, they also have some differences and similarities that you should know. In this article, we will explain what Qurbani and Aqiqah are, why they are performed, how they are performed, and what are their differences and similarities.

What is Qurbani?

Qurbani is the act of sacrificing an animal during the days of Eid al-Adha, which is the 10th, 11th, or 12th of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar. Qurbani is an obligatory duty for every Muslim who has reached puberty and has enough wealth to afford it. Qurbani is a way of following the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) for the sake of Allah (SWT), but Allah (SWT) replaced him with a ram. Qurbani is also a way of expressing gratitude to Allah (SWT) for His blessings and mercy.

What is Aqiqah?

Aqiqah is the act of sacrificing an animal on the occasion of a child’s birth. It is a recommended sunnah for every Muslim who can afford it. Aqiqah should be performed on the seventh day after the birth of the child, or as soon as possible after that. Aqiqah is a way of celebrating the birth of a child and giving thanks to Allah (SWT) for His gift. Aqiqah is also a way of protecting the child from harm and evil.

Why Perform Qurbani and Aqiqah?

Qurbani and Aqiqah have many benefits and rewards for both the performers and the recipients. Here are some of them:

  • Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of worship that bring one closer to Allah (SWT) and earn His pleasure and forgiveness.
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of charity that help feed the poor and needy and share the joy with them.
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of obedience that follow the sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and show love and devotion to them.
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of purification that cleanse one from sins and faults.
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of solidarity that strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and unity among Muslims.

How to Perform Qurbani and Aqiqah?

Qurbani and Aqiqah have some rules and guidelines that should be followed to ensure their validity and acceptance. Here are some of them:

  • The animals that can be sacrificed for Qurbani and Aqiqah are sheep, goats, cows, camels, or buffaloes. The animals should be healthy, free from defects, and have reached a certain age. For sheep and goats, the minimum age is one year; for cows, buffaloes, and camels, the minimum age is two years.
  • The number of animals that should be sacrificed for Qurbani depends on the type of animal. For sheep and goats, one animal suffices for one person or one family; for cows, buffaloes, and camels, one animal suffices for seven people or seven families.
  • The number of animals that should be sacrificed for Aqiqah depends on the gender of the child. For a boy, two animals should be sacrificed; for a girl, one animal should be sacrificed.
  • The time of sacrifice for Qurbani is from after the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah until before sunset on the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. The time of sacrifice for Aqiqah is preferably on the seventh day after the birth of the child, or any day after that.
  • The intention of sacrifice for Qurbani should be to seek Allah’s (SWT) pleasure and reward; the intention of sacrifice for Aqiqah should be to give thanks to Allah (SWT) for His gift and to protect the child from harm.
  • The method of sacrifice for Qurbani and Aqiqah should be according to Islamic law, which requires slaughtering the animal by cutting its throat with a sharp knife in a swift manner while saying “Bismillah Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest).
  • The distribution of the meat for Qurbani and Aqiqah should be done in a fair and generous manner. The meat should be divided into three parts: one for oneself and one’s family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy. Alternatively, the meat can be given entirely to the poor and needy.

What are the Differences and Similarities Between Qurbani and Aqiqah?

Qurbani and Aqiqah have some differences and similarities that can be summarized as follows:

  • Qurbani is obligatory for every Muslim who has reached puberty and has enough wealth to afford it; Aqiqah is recommended for every Muslim who can afford it.
  • Qurbani is performed during the days of Eid al-Adha; Aqiqah is performed on the occasion of a child’s birth.
  • Qurbani is a way of following the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS); Aqiqah is a way of celebrating the birth of a child.
  • Qurbani requires one animal for one person or one family; Aqiqah requires two animals for a boy and one animal for a girl.
  •  Qurbani and Aqiqah both involve the sacrifice of animals for the sake of Allah (SWT).
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah both have benefits and rewards for the performers and the recipients.
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah both have rules and guidelines that should be followed to ensure their validity and acceptance.

We hope that this article has helped you understand what Qurbani and Aqiqah are, why they are performed, how they are performed, and what are their differences and similarities. We also hope that this article has inspired you to perform Qurbani and Aqiqah with sincerity and generosity, and to share the joy with your brothers and sisters in Islam. May Allah (SWT) accept your Qurbani and Aqiqah, and bless you with His mercy and grace. Ameen.

 

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