In a meaningful initiative for Eid Al Adha, the Sisters Forum of Newham, in collaboration with the UK charity Islamic Relief, has undertaken a food drive to support the community in Newham.
Led by CEO Sabia Kamali, the female volunteers of the Sisters Forum dedicated their efforts to prepare, pack, and distribute Qurbani meat packs to vulnerable women and families grappling with the current cost-of-living crisis.
Established in 2012 to address and raise awareness about domestic violence against women, the Sisters Forum engages, educates, and empowers BAME women. Through this initiative, they aim to equip women with the skills and confidence needed to attain independence, secure employment, foster a healthy lifestyle, and regain confidence for themselves and their children.
During the distribution drive, the women actively participated in sharing the parcels and took a few moments to talk and engage with the recipients.
CEO Sabia Kamali emphasized the importance of combating hunger through local community campaigns. She stated, “Hunger is not acceptable, and Sisters Forum is working to highlight and eradicate it through our local community campaigns. Today, over 100 bags, each containing 1.6kg of Qurbani meat, were shared with vulnerable women and their families here in Newham.”
The rising issue of food poverty in the UK affects various demographics, including children missing free school meals during holidays, individuals turning to food banks due to job loss, low-income parents sacrificing meals for their children, older people struggling to prepare meals without assistance, and those excluded from welfare support.
Sharing meat during the Muslim celebration of Eid is a way to foster empathy for those less fortunate worldwide. It ensures that they can celebrate Eid without worrying about how to feed their children. For many vulnerable communities, Eid-ul Adha is the only time in the year they get to eat meat.
