Latest news with #Sadaqah
Times of Oman
22-03-2025
- General
- Times of Oman
The power of giving: How Ramadan strengthens community and charity
Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, is also a time of immense generosity and social solidarity. It is a period when communities come together to support those in need, reinforcing the values of compassion, kindness, and selflessness. Central to this spirit of giving is Zakat, the obligatory charity in Islam, alongside Sadaqah, voluntary charity. These acts of giving not only uplift individuals in need but also strengthen the bonds within society, ensuring that the spirit of Ramadan extends beyond personal devotion to collective welfare. The essence of giving in Ramadan Ramadan is not only about refraining from food and drink during the day but also about developing a heightened sense of empathy and gratitude. Fasting allows individuals to experience hunger and discomfort, creating a deep sense of awareness of the struggles faced by the less fortunate. This experience naturally cultivates a spirit of giving, prompting people to engage in acts of charity and community service. Charity in Ramadan is considered especially rewarding. Muslims believe that the rewards of good deeds are multiplied during this sacred month, making it an opportune time to give generously. Many people make it a priority to give Zakat during Ramadan, ensuring that their wealth benefits those in need at a time when it is most impactful. Zakat: A pillar of Islam that uplifts communities Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a mandatory form of charity that requires Muslims to give a portion of their wealth—typically 2.5% of their savings—to those in need. It is not merely an act of generosity but an obligation designed to promote social justice and economic balance. By redistributing wealth, Zakat helps reduce poverty, support the underprivileged, and ensure that wealth circulates within the community rather than remaining concentrated among the few. During Ramadan, many people choose to fulfill their Zakat obligation, knowing that their contribution can help alleviate the suffering of those who struggle to afford basic necessities such as food, clothing, shelter, and healthcare. The beneficiaries of Zakat typically include: • The poor and needy • Orphans and widows • Refugees and displaced individuals • Those burdened by debt • Students and scholars lacking financial support • People who have converted to Islam and require assistance • Humanitarian efforts such as disaster relief and medical aid By fulfilling their Zakat duty, Muslims actively contribute to poverty alleviation and economic stability, ensuring that no member of society is left behind. Sadaqah: Voluntary giving that transform lives While Zakat is a structured form of charity, Sadaqah is voluntary and can be given at any time in any amount. Sadaqah can take many forms beyond financial assistance, including providing food for the hungry, helping build schools and mosques, supporting medical treatment, or even simple acts of kindness such as offering a smile or words of encouragement. During Ramadan, Sadaqah takes on even greater significance. Many people prepare and distribute iftar meals (the evening meal to break the fast) for the poor and underprivileged, ensuring that no one goes hungry. Mosques, community centers, and charitable organizations arrange mass iftar gatherings, welcoming people of all backgrounds to share in the blessings of Ramadan. In addition, many engage in Sadaqah Jariyah, a form of ongoing charity that provides long-term benefits, such as building wells for clean drinking water, funding education programs, or establishing sustainable businesses for struggling families. These initiatives create lasting social impact and continue to benefit communities even after Ramadan ends. Community service: Strengthening bonds and creating change Beyond financial contributions, Ramadan is also a time for volunteering and community service. People dedicate their time and effort to supporting those in need in various ways, such as: • Feeding the Hungry: Many individuals and organisations organise food drives, distributing essential groceries to low-income families, refugees, and the homeless. • Supporting Orphans and the Elderly: Visiting orphanages and elderly care homes becomes a common practice, as people offer companionship, gifts, and emotional support to those who may feel lonely. • Medical Assistance: Doctors and healthcare professionals often provide free medical check-ups, medicines, and treatments to those who cannot afford healthcare. • Clothing and Shelter Drives: Ramadan inspires initiatives to provide warm clothing, shoes, and shelter for the underprivileged, especially in areas affected by war, conflict, or natural disasters. These acts of service build stronger, more compassionate communities where individuals look out for one another. They also remind people that Ramadan is not just about personal spiritual growth but about uplifting those around them. The ripple effect of generosity The charitable actions taken during Ramadan create a ripple effect that extends beyond the holy month. When individuals witness acts of kindness, they are inspired to give more, help more, and do more. This culture of generosity fosters unity and social harmony, creating a society that values compassion and mutual support. Furthermore, the principles of Zakat, Sadaqah, and community service teach valuable lessons about wealth, responsibility, and empathy. They encourage people to see their financial and social privileges as tools for making a difference rather than merely personal gain. This shift in mindset ensures that the legacy of Ramadan's generosity continues throughout the year. A month of giving, a lifetime of impact Ramadan is a time of deep reflection, gratitude, and generosity. Through Zakat, Sadaqah, and community service, Muslims strengthen their bond with God while simultaneously improving the lives of those around them. The collective impact of these charitable acts reduces inequality, fosters social cohesion, and uplifts communities. As Ramadan reminds us, true success is not measured by how much wealth one accumulates but by how much one gives to uplift others. By embracing the power of giving, individuals can transform lives—not only during this holy month but throughout the year, ensuring that the values of compassion, kindness, and generosity remain at the heart of society.
Mid East Info
04-03-2025
- General
- Mid East Info
UNHCR Unveils 2024 Islamic Philanthropy Annual Report: Nearly US$22 Million Mobilized to Aid Over 872,000 Displaced Individuals
Dubai, UAE – March 3, 2025: UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, launched its 7th annual Islamic Philanthropy Report, showcasing the growing impact of Zakat and Sadaqah contributions in providing critical relief to refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) worldwide. Since its inception in 2017, UNHCR's Refugee Zakat Fund has delivered life-saving assistance to more than 8.9 million people across 31 countries, establishing itself as a trusted, compliant, and efficient mechanism for Islamic social finance in humanitarian aid. Islamic Philanthropy: A lifeline for Millions In 2024 alone, Zakat contributions exceeded US$14 million, reaching more than 474,000 eligible refugees and IDPs across 22 countries. Meanwhile, Sadaqah contributions surpassed US$7.8 million, benefiting over 390,000 displaced individuals in 16 countries. Notably, Mexico and Eswatini received Sadaqah funding for the first time—a milestone in expanding the Refugee Zakat Fund's global reach. As we approach the Holy month of Ramadan, UNHCR is calling on donors to step up their support, as rising displacement and humanitarian needs require urgent action. Refugees and internally displaced families in Syria and Sudan remain among the most vulnerable, and the Refugee Zakat Fund will continue to expand its efforts to meet their growing needs. Since the start of the Syria crisis, the fund has distributed over US$78 million in Zakat and Sadaqah to support displaced Syrians across Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, and Türkiye, reaching 2.4 million beneficiaries—primarily through multi-month cash assistance. This Ramadan, the Fund will intensify its response to help displaced families secure essentials, rebuild their lives, and work toward a more stable future. The power of Islamic philanthropy has been further demonstrated through UNHCR's major global humanitarian campaigns in 2024, including Ramadan, Dhul Hijjah, Sadaqah Jariah and Winter campaigns. Upholding Compliance, Expanding Innovation UNHCR reinforced its commitment to ensuring Zakat compliance in 2024 with the appointment of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA)—a distinguished body of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)—as the official UNHCR Zakat Board. Additionally, the Global Islamic Fund for Refugees (GIFR), a philanthropic endowment established in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)'s poverty alleviation arm, the Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development (ISFD), is now operational, securing initial pledges from contributors, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To make Zakat contributions even more seamless, UNHCR continues to lead with innovation—the Refugee Zakat Fund App remains the only Zakat-dedicated App launched by a United Nations agency, providing donors with a transparent and efficient way to give. ' We are deeply grateful to all those who have placed their trust in the Refugee Zakat Fund, including our valued donors and partners. Their generosity and collaboration have enabled us to expand the reach of Islamic philanthropy, providing life-saving support to millions of displaced families. We look forward to strengthening these partnerships to drive greater impact and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) this year,' said Khaled Khalifa, Senior Advisor to the High Commissioner and UNHCR's Representative to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. For more information and to access the full 2024 Islamic Philanthropy Annual Report, please visit: . -ENDS- About UNHCR UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a global leader in protecting and assisting forcibly displaced communities. Since 1950, UNHCR has provided emergency aid, shelter, food, and water to millions of people worldwide, while working towards long-term solutions to help refugees build a safer and more stable future.
Zawya
04-03-2025
- General
- Zawya
UNHCR unveils 2024 Islamic Philanthropy Annual Report
Dubai, UAE – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, launched its 7th annual Islamic Philanthropy Report, showcasing the growing impact of Zakat and Sadaqah contributions in providing critical relief to refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) worldwide. Since its inception in 2017, UNHCR's Refugee Zakat Fund has delivered life-saving assistance to more than 8.9 million people across 31 countries, establishing itself as a trusted, compliant, and efficient mechanism for Islamic social finance in humanitarian aid. Islamic Philanthropy: A lifeline for Millions In 2024 alone, Zakat contributions exceeded US$14 million, reaching more than 474,000 eligible refugees and IDPs across 22 countries. Meanwhile, Sadaqah contributions surpassed US$7.8 million, benefiting over 390,000 displaced individuals in 16 countries. Notably, Mexico and Eswatini received Sadaqah funding for the first time—a milestone in expanding the Refugee Zakat Fund's global reach. As we approach the Holy month of Ramadan, UNHCR is calling on donors to step up their support, as rising displacement and humanitarian needs require urgent action. Refugees and internally displaced families in Syria and Sudan remain among the most vulnerable, and the Refugee Zakat Fund will continue to expand its efforts to meet their growing needs. Since the start of the Syria crisis, the fund has distributed over US$78 million in Zakat and Sadaqah to support displaced Syrians across Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, and Türkiye, reaching 2.4 million beneficiaries—primarily through multi-month cash assistance. This Ramadan, the Fund will intensify its response to help displaced families secure essentials, rebuild their lives, and work toward a more stable future. The power of Islamic philanthropy has been further demonstrated through UNHCR's major global humanitarian campaigns in 2024, including Ramadan, Dhul Hijjah, Sadaqah Jariah and Winter campaigns. Upholding Compliance, Expanding Innovation UNHCR reinforced its commitment to ensuring Zakat compliance in 2024 with the appointment of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA)—a distinguished body of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)—as the official UNHCR Zakat Board. Additionally, the Global Islamic Fund for Refugees (GIFR), a philanthropic endowment established in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)'s poverty alleviation arm, the Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development (ISFD), is now operational, securing initial pledges from contributors, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To make Zakat contributions even more seamless, UNHCR continues to lead with innovation—the Refugee Zakat Fund App remains the only Zakat-dedicated App launched by a United Nations agency, providing donors with a transparent and efficient way to give. " We are deeply grateful to all those who have placed their trust in the Refugee Zakat Fund, including our valued donors and partners. Their generosity and collaboration have enabled us to expand the reach of Islamic philanthropy, providing life-saving support to millions of displaced families. We look forward to strengthening these partnerships to drive greater impact and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) this year," said Khaled Khalifa, Senior Advisor to the High Commissioner and UNHCR's Representative to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. For more information and to access the full 2024 Islamic Philanthropy Annual Report, please visit: About UNHCR UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a global leader in protecting and assisting forcibly displaced communities. Since 1950, UNHCR has provided emergency aid, shelter, food, and water to millions of people worldwide, while working towards long-term solutions to help refugees build a safer and more stable future.
See - Sada Elbalad
03-03-2025
- General
- See - Sada Elbalad
UNHCR Unveils 2024 Islamic Philanthropy Annual Report: Nearly US$22 Million Mobilized to Aid Over 872,000 Displaced Individuals
Ahmed Emam UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, launched its 7th annual Islamic Philanthropy Report, showcasing the growing impact of Zakat and Sadaqah contributions in providing critical relief to refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) worldwide. Since its inception in 2017, UNHCR's Refugee Zakat Fund has delivered life-saving assistance to more than 8.9 million people across 31 countries, establishing itself as a trusted, compliant, and efficient mechanism for Islamic social finance in humanitarian aid. Islamic Philanthropy: A lifeline for Millions In 2024 alone, Zakat contributions exceeded US$14 million, reaching more than 474,000 eligible refugees and IDPs across 22 countries. Meanwhile, Sadaqah contributions surpassed US$7.8 million, benefiting over 390,000 displaced individuals in 16 countries. Notably, Mexico and Eswatini received Sadaqah funding for the first time—a milestone in expanding the Refugee Zakat Fund's global reach. As we approach the Holy month of Ramadan, UNHCR is calling on donors to step up their support, as rising displacement and humanitarian needs require urgent action. Refugees and internally displaced families in Syria and Sudan remain among the most vulnerable, and the Refugee Zakat Fund will continue to expand its efforts to meet their growing needs. Since the start of the Syria crisis, the fund has distributed over US$78 million in Zakat and Sadaqah to support displaced Syrians across Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, and Türkiye, reaching 2.4 million beneficiaries—primarily through multi-month cash assistance. This Ramadan, the Fund will intensify its response to help displaced families secure essentials, rebuild their lives, and work toward a more stable future. The power of Islamic philanthropy has been further demonstrated through UNHCR's major global humanitarian campaigns in 2024, including Ramadan, Dhul Hijjah, Sadaqah Jariah and Winter campaigns. Upholding Compliance, Expanding Innovation UNHCR reinforced its commitment to ensuring Zakat compliance in 2024 with the appointment of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA)—a distinguished body of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)—as the official UNHCR Zakat Board. Additionally, the Global Islamic Fund for Refugees (GIFR), a philanthropic endowment established in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)'s poverty alleviation arm, the Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development (ISFD), is now operational, securing initial pledges from contributors, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To make Zakat contributions even more seamless, UNHCR continues to lead with innovation—the Refugee Zakat Fund App remains the only Zakat-dedicated App launched by a United Nations agency, providing donors with a transparent and efficient way to give. "We are deeply grateful to all those who have placed their trust in the Refugee Zakat Fund, including our valued donors and partners. Their generosity and collaboration have enabled us to expand the reach of Islamic philanthropy, providing life-saving support to millions of displaced families. We look forward to strengthening these partnerships to drive greater impact and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) this year," said Khaled Khalifa, Senior Advisor to the High Commissioner and UNHCR's Representative to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
