Every year, Islamic Relief implements the Ramadan project for its main rightsholders, orphan children and their families. In Ramadan 2023, this project was implemented in Albania in two forms: food packages and cash.  

The implementation of cash grants for rightsholders allowed them to choose the basket products themselves. It was a form of donation that aimed to boost their self-esteem and treat them with dignity.   

Nexhmije Shpellzaj and her family from Shkoder, Albania, in the Malësi e Madhe district, were one of the recipients.  

A widowed mother struggling to make ends meet

Nexhmije is a 39-year-old widow and mother of 4. She occasionally works as a sanitary worker but does not have a fixed job.

Nexhmije got married at a young age. She could not finish her studies. After marriage, she was blessed with 4 children, all primary school age, who are currently in her care. Over five years ago, her husband passed away in a road accident. Her youngest, Jetmira, who is now six, was not yet a year old when he passed.

“It’s difficult being a mother and a father at the same time; it’s such a big responsibility.”

A family going through hardships

Nexhmije’s family lives in a private house with modest conditions. They were able to secure this house thanks to charities. However, the house has serious moisture problems and insects.

Last year, a Muslim sister helped Nexhmije and her family immigrate to Germany as an asylum seeker. However, after staying for 6 months there, they returned her to Albania.

Currently, Nexhmije is unemployed. Whenever she can, she tries to work occasionally as a sanitary worker or in agriculture. However, the income she earns is insufficient for the family’s needs and expenses. The state offers them economic assistance as a family in need, but it cannot even cover the cost of basic daily food.

“Allah knows what a mother feels when there is no bread to give to her children. I don’t even wish it on the enemy. The last time I remember buying clothes for the children was when Islamic Relief gave us money for (an) Eid gift. I pray to the Almighty for the good health of my children.”

The Impact of Your Ramadan Donations

“I swear to Allah SWT, that He is one and there is no other. I don’t know how many times my neighbours bring me food for the children for charity.

“Ramadan is the month of mercy, the month of forgiveness, the month of sacrifice, the month where we understand the importance and value of what we have. We pray to Allah SWT to forgive us for how many times we ask for things that we don’t have because we are never thankful enough for all the blessings that He has given us.

“Before (Islamic Relief) called me, I worked in a house and bought a package of flour with the money I received. When I bought the flour, I was in doubt, I was saying to myself: flour or sausage for children?

“Then, when you informed me about cash in the bank to buy food for Ramadan, I said, (a) mother’s prayers are never rejected, Alhamdulillah.

“I’m so happy and lucky to be part of Islamic Relief. Thank you so much for your kindness. We are extremely appreciative of all that you are doing for us.

“I am infinitely grateful to you. Allah SWT and you are the ones who are raising my children. I don’t want to imagine what my life and my children’s lives would be like without your help.

“You came into my life in those days when I only saw black days, I saw only sadness, you came like the light you see at the end of the tunnel. Islamic Relief is a blessing, it is hope, it is strength to move forward.”