In Ramadan 2023, Islamic Relief provided food packs to 1,402 households in Grozny, Chechnya. Our teams also distributed food vouchers that allowed rightsholders to buy the food items they needed at the store.  

One of the beneficiaries was Luiza Djabaeva, a 31-year-old mother of four. She works as a housewife, taking care of the children and the small flat her family lives in while her husband works.  

“These days, life is really becoming very hard. The prices grow very quickly, there is no stability. 

“Timur works as a taxi driver and his daily earnings (around $12) are spent on our everyday needs.  

“We also have children’s allowances (around $480) which we have started to get recently, and with the rise in prices almost all of it too is spent on food and clothes, medicine when children get ill and communal services ($60 per month).  

“My attempts to save up some money for improving our living conditions often fail. 

“During tough times, we have to depend on our relatives who share with us what they have.”    

Making Do With Little Space 

“Alhamdulillah, we have all the needed communal supplies here, the only problem is that we live in a former accommodation centre and our flat is 20 square meters. 

“There is no place to put a desk or an additional bed for children. Muhammad goes to school and he does his homework at his grandmother’s place which is on the same floor as ours.   

“Soon Safiya will go to school, in shaa Allah, and Khaleem and Khussein too and we are unable to arrange a place for them to do their home tasks and keep their textbooks. This is so frustrating!  

Hope for Ramadan during tough times 

“Ramadan is the time of hope and peace for all Muslims. It’s also the time of mercy and forgiveness, strengthening of our Iman, increasing our good deeds and improving our characters. So, we too are trying to do good deeds – fast and improve ourselves with Allah’s help! 

“During Ramadan, we wake up earlier to have suhoor. My children also are starting to fast little by little. For suhoor, we eat rice with milk, buckwheat or some fried eggs. Then we do our prayers. Every evening Timur does tarawih prayer at the nearby mosque. He sometimes has iftar with his friends.  

During Ramadan, we eat less because there is less time for meals. We eat dates for Iftar when we can afford them. During the rest of the year, I cook all possible dishes out of flour, e.g. some buns, chepalgash, khingalsh, galnash.  

“Children like them and this food also helps to save up some means for other needs, because children need clothes to wear and toys too. And when you buy a sack of flour the price for a kilo is less and you can save up a little.”        

How Islamic Relief Helps 

“The support we and the families like ours receive from Islamic Relief during Ramadan is very valuable. The food pack lasts for days during which we don’t have to bother ourselves about where to get the food from. It is a great relief, especially now, when the situation is so unstable.   

“With us, the Ramadan food pack will in sha Allah last for about a week or more, and it will help save money we would have to pay for communal services during the whole month. So, it is great support!   

“We have become part of the Islamic Relief Ramadan project thanks to our community leader Layla. She was our head when the dormitory was still an accommodation centre for IDPs (internally displaced persons) and continued her mission into the day. She knows the needs of people and does the best she can to help others.  

“We received a voucher from the IRR with which we could choose goods at a food store, and this was great because we chose what we wanted and bought more sweets for the month of Ramadan, which children appreciated most. I cannot tell you what can be improved because this aid was ideal! We couldn’t ask for more!  

“I have so many words of gratitude for all the people who made this project possible! May Allah grant you with His mercy multiple times!  And may He treat you as those He is pleased with!”  

Last Ramadan, Islamic Relief provided food packs to 1,402 households in Grozny, Chechnya. Our teams also distributed food vouchers that allowed rightsholders to buy the food items they needed at the store. 

One of the beneficiaries is Larisa Mukaeva, a 44-year-old widow. A mother of 3, she is the current breadwinner of the house, after her eldest son lost his job and struggles to find work.  

“When Saidi was alive our poverty didn’t seem to be a great deal, and now after his death, I feel at such a loss.  

“My elder son finished law school last year and has a diploma. It is several months already since he has been trying to find a job but in vain.  

“He tried selling phones at a private shop with his friend, but soon had to leave because the shop owner decided to scale down the number of staff, so now Bek is looking for a job again.”  

 “Alhamdulillah, not so long ago we have started to receive a bread-winner-loss allowance for Saifullah ($142) and I have recently found a part-time job in a food store nearby.  

Struggling to Provide for Her Children’s Needs  

“I cannot work the full day because Saifullah has digestion problems and needs care. We are trying to diagnose his disease, but no doctor has given the exact statement yet.  

“Medical tests and consultations are quite expensive and sometimes we have to go outside Chechnya to have more of them, and we also have to pay communal services (around $65 per month) that’s why food often becomes an issue.  

“My brother-in-law often helps us with food and clothes during tough times, but he has a wife and three children and they are expecting one more child, so I don’t feel at ease when he spends money on us.  

“I pray so much that Bek-Muhammad would find a job and our situation improves, in sha Allah.”  

A Ramadan of Hardship 

 “Ramadan is surely a special month that brings more joy and hope to all Muslims. It seems to me, however, that after Saidi is no longer with us, Ramadan is no longer the same too. As well as the whole of my life in general. I know that everything is in Allah’s hands, so I don’t lose hope and rely upon Him! 

“During Ramadan, I wake up earlier to prepare something to eat for my sons, like some porridge or fried eggs. We have our suhoor and then do our prayers. Every evening Bek goes to the nearest Mosque for tarawih and Saifullah stays with me.  

We usually have various dishes that I can cook with the available ingredients. I cook well and sometimes even in darkness, when we have electricity failures, I cook better. As my children say, the food I make is more delicious when prepared without light”  

How Islamic Relief Helps 

“Islamic Relief is doing a great job for all those who receive this support during Ramadan.  

“I have learnt about Islamic Relief from my friend, who knew about Saidi’s death and our hardships and helped me apply. We didn’t participate in any other projects. But this help came right in time! When we needed it so much!   

“These days when the life of people here seems to grow harder and harder, Islamic Relief gives hope for improvement.  

“People can feed their families and for all of them, this is a great support. 

“For our family, this is a great relief, and this food will help us save up some money we need for other expenses, like medical needs, communal services and studies.  

“When I was shopping with the Ramadan voucher, I felt the barakah of it. I think I bought with it more than I could buy with an equal sum of money at any other store.   

“I thank all those who helped us, all who work in Islamic Relief and those who donate money to it. May Allah be pleased with them all!”  

The conflict in Sudan, which has raged on for almost a year now, is pushing the country to breaking point. The ongoing hostilities have ripped the country apart. Now, huge swathes of the population are dangerously close to famine, with millions of lives at risk.  

This month, the United Nations stated that the country is “on course to become the world’s worst hunger crisis.”  

Across Sudan, 17.7 million people are facing high levels of acute food insecurity. 5 million people are just one step away from famine and more than 3.4 million children suffering from malnutrition.  

A Country on the Brink 

Approximately 8 million people across Sudan have been displaced since the crisis began in April. Many reside in camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps. But 2 million people have left the country, seeking refuge in neighbouring Chad, Egypt and South Sudan. 

The conflict has spread across the country, resulting in thousands of deaths.  

Almost 15,000 people have been killed so far. However, the real death toll is thought to be far higher as some areas remain extremely challenging to access.  

Looting has become common, while increasingly violent conflict has led to the widespread destruction of critical infrastructure. The health sector has all but collapsed. More than 70% of healthcare facilities in Sudan have shut down since the fighting began.   

All the while, the economy crumbles. Prices of essential items have skyrocketed by 83%, meaning essential foods and commodities remain out of reach for many.  

A Lifeline During the Sudan Crisis 

Islamic Relief has provided aid to more than 600,000 people since the crisis began, and we will continue to distribute food and cash assistance where we are able to reach civilians.  

As the crisis reaches a critical juncture, Islamic Relief continues to join the United Nations and other groups in calling for an end to hostilities before more lives are ruined, and a generation is wiped out.  

The people of Sudan urgently need more international attention and support. There must be renewed efforts to secure an immediate ceasefire and a negotiated political settlement. Civilians must be protected. As famine looms, more must be done to help those most at risk.  

We will continue to provide life-saving aid to the people of Sudan and your donations can help us to make a huge difference.

In the last 10 nights of Ramadan, Muslims increase their acts of worship (ibadah) in the hopes of catching Laylatul Qadr. Where, on top of their obligatory fasting and Taraweeh prayers, they do their best to make more dua, increase in sunnah prayers, give charity and so much more.

But why are Laylatul Qadr, and the last 10 nights, so important to Muslims? Why does it bring out so much good in the community in a month already filled with blessings?

Because the final nights of the Holy month are the best opportunity to gain immense rewards by observing the holiest night of the year!

What is Laylatul Qadr?

Laylatul Qadr (also known as the Night of Decree or Night of Power) is one of the most sacred nights in the Islamic calendar. It takes place in the last 10 days of Ramadan and was the night in which the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

Laylatul Qadr is also significant for the many blessings it brings to those who observe and do good during it. As Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’an,

“The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.”

Qur’an, 97:3

Likewise, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“The one who seeks forgiveness during the last ten nights of Ramadan, while believing in Allah and hoping for His reward, will have all of his previous sins forgiven.”

Sunan Ibn Majah

Seeking Laylatul Qadr

While the exact date of Laylatul Qadr is unknown, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“Seek it in the last ten days, on the odd nights.”

Bukhari and Muslim

For this reason, we are encouraged to increase our worship and devotion during the last 10 nights of Ramadan, especially during the odd nights (e.g. the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27 or 29th night), in order to increase our chances of gaining the immense rewards of this blessed night.

Increasing Devotion During the Last 10 Nights of Ramadan

There are many acts of worship one can do to increase the blessings one may receive while seeking Laylatul Qadr.

Reciting the holy Qur’an, sending Salawat (blessings upon the Prophet (ﷺ)) and offering optional (nafl) prayers, making dua (or supplication) are examples of simple ibadah we can do on these nights.

Increasing these small but important acts of worship during the last 10 nights of Ramadan draws us closer to Allah (SWT), allowing us to ask Him for forgiveness, guidance and blessings.

We can also elevate these good deeds by spending the last 10 days of Ramadan in seclusion within the mosque worshipping Allah (SWT), also known as i’tikaf.

Performing i’tikaf

Many Muslims choose to spend at least a portion (if not all) of the last ten days of Ramadan in seclusion (i’tikaf).

Done in the mosque, i’tikaf is an act of worship where one solely focuses on worshipping Allah (SWT) and refrains from involvement in worldly affairs. It is a time to wholly reflect, increase worship and increase one’s religious knowledge while seeking closeness to Allah (SWT).

Giving charity during the last 10 nights of Ramadan

Another important act of worship Muslims can do during the last 10 nights of Ramadan is to give charity, both obligatory (Zakat) and voluntary (Sadaqah).

As the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

“The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be their charity.”

Tirmidhi

Zakat

Zakat, like fasting and performing Salah, is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is an obligation for every financially able and sane adult Muslim whose wealth passes a certain threshold (also known as Nisab). To fulfil Zakat means to give a portion of their wealth to those in need, around 2.5% of it.

Sadaqah

In Islam, Sadaqah means general or voluntary charity. To give Sadaqah is also a powerful act of worship, as the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

“Sadaqah extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire.”

Tirmidhi

Where to Give Zakat and Sadaqah in the Last 10 Days

To give in charity means to provide for those most in need in our Ummah, granting them the opportunities to thrive and build a brighter future for their community.

When you connect your Zakat and Sadaqah with Islamic Relief, you help provide vital development programs relief, healthcare, education and livelihood support to millions in need. Your generosity helps power the future of countless vulnerable communities around the world, making a lasting positive difference in this lifetime and the next.

In conclusion, the last 10 nights of Ramadan are highly significant in Islam as they contain Laylatul Qadr, the most blessed night of the year. It is also a night that brings blessings of more than 1000 months’ worth.

As such, we are encouraged to increase their worship and devotion during these nights, in acts such as making dua, spending the night in prayer, performing i’tikaf and giving charity. By doing so, we increase our chances of gaining the immense blessings of Laylatul Qadr, purifying our hearts and drawing us closer to Allah (SWT).

May Allah (SWT) guide us all and grant us the opportunity to observe Laylatul Qadr and make the most of these blessed nights!

As Yemen marks 9 years of war, one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises has only worsened. Malnutrition, especially, is spiralling in the country. A critical issue not helped by the recent cuts to humanitarian aid, affecting millions of lives.

Islamic Relief is on the ground, working in 159 nutrition centres across Yemen. Over the past few months, our teams observed a surge in malnourished children. The price of essential food in the market is also rapidly rising, leaving many families unable to afford it.

The Impact of Aid Cuts

Since December, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) has paused its general food distributions in northern Yemen, which has been a lifeline for 9.5 million people. In addition, the WFP malnutrition prevention programme is facing a significant shortage of supplies which is affecting critical services.

In January 2024, more than half of UN-surveyed households in Yemen were unable to access adequate food. This represented an increase of 11% from November 2023.

After 9 years of war, malnutrition rates in Yemen are some of the highest ever recorded and are expected to worsen. 17.6 million people in the country are facing food insecurity. Nearly half of all its children are currently estimated to be experiencing moderate to severe stunting. Almost 80% of the population lives below the poverty line. Around 2.7 million women and 5 million children under 5 years old are estimated to require treatment for acute malnutrition in 2024.

Ammar Al-Dumini, Senior media and communications officer with Islamic Relief in Yemen, said:

“The impact of aid cuts to Yemen over the last few months are now clearly being felt and we see this impact in the appalling levels of hunger and malnutrition. These are some of the highest levels the country has ever seen. After 9 years of civil war, the economy is in crisis and inflation is out of control. People have lost their livelihoods and can’t afford to buy enough food. Yemen is one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world but it has been largely forgotten.”

“Aid has been vital in preventing Yemen falling into famine in recent years, and it saved countless lives. But if the international community continues to overlook the humanitarian situation in Yemen then we will see conditions badly deteriorate again.”

Islamic Relief on the ground in Yemen

Islamic Relief, which works in 14 out of 22 governates across the country. We urgently appeal to the international community to ensure the humanitarian response in Yemen is appropriately funded.

In addition to providing food, cash, vocational training, and income support, Islamic Relief is on the ground ensuring that vulnerable Yemenis have access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene kits. We also work in 159 health and nutrition centres across the country, supporting 77,719 children under five and 91,879 pregnant and lactating women who are admitted for treatment to regain a healthy weight.

Living through a Ramadan like no other, an Islamic Relief aid worker* in Gaza reflects on Ramadans gone by and shares his hope of seeing a ceasefire before Eid. 

It has been 160 days since this brutal war on Gaza began. This is the fourth day of the holy month of Ramadan.

We hoped there would be a ceasefire before the start of Ramadan, but none materialised so we are still living through the hardest times of our lives. It may even be the cruellest time humanity has witnessed in the modern day.

In fact, things have become even harder during Ramadan.  

Remembering Ramadan in Gaza

This month is supposed to be a time for doing good, for charity, compassion and solidarity. But Palestinians are starting their Ramadan displaced, living in tents and prevented from meeting their basic needs.

I miss everything we used to do in Ramadan. This year we are barely surviving. This year we face famine, not only fasting.  

For the past few years, everyone would start preparing early for Ramadan, hanging decorations, and lighting lanterns. Some neighbourhoods would even paint walls with vibrant colours. The mosques clean their carpets and fix their lighting to be ready to receive everyone coming to pray.

Last year, in my building, all the neighbours gathered and fixed some lights around the entrance, it looked magnificent.

This year, most of these neighbourhoods are gone. Some buildings still stand, but their residents are not there.  

Recently some of our neighbours from the building shared a video of last year’s decoration. It brought tears into my eyes being able to see my house before it was destroyed. I know it is uninhabitable now, but I hope I might be able to salvage some of my books, some of my personal items, my kids’ school bags and some toys if we ever make it back there.

My kids blame us for not allowing them to bring their toys when we left. We thought we would be back in a couple of days.  

Bombing and airstrikes replace the call to prayer 

Last Ramadan, I would get back from work and help my wife in the kitchen before it was time to break our fast. The kids would finish their homework and watch some TV. They enjoyed some of the shows that aired during Ramadan.

My son has been asking me about the show this year, asking why we’re not watching it on TV. I told him that we can’t run the TV at night because we’re saving batteries.  

I remember promising my children last year that I would take them with me to the mosque to perform night prayers this year. Even though they were young, they wanted to join me in going to the mosque every night after we broke our fast.

In the mosques, it usually seems as if everyone in Gaza is attending the night prayers. For that one hour, the streets empty, and once the prayer is over, life flows back into the shops, the markets and family homes.  

This year there are no night prayers at the mosque. We pray at home. It is too dangerous to go out after the sun sets.

Last year, the streets and shops were filled with recitals of the Qur’an, broadcast over speakers; and of course, we heard the call to prayer coming from the mosques.

Now, we hear bombing and airstrikes. We have drones buzzing over our heads all day long – a disturbing sound that only gives us the feeling of being monitored and tracked and marked as a target.  

Separated families 

In Gaza, the generosity of the people is unmatched, and it doubles in Ramadan. There is a tradition where men visit their female relatives including sisters, aunts, mothers-in-law and others to bring them gifts for Ramadan.

Generosity is also seen when families invite each other to have breakfast together. For example, I used to invite my sisters, their husbands and children to have an iftar at my parents’ house. There would be around 30-40 people gathered to enjoy Ramadan together. We’d break our fast and go to the mosque together to pray. Later at night, we’d gather for coffee and some Katayef (Qatayef, Ramadan sweets).  

This year, I could not visit any of my relatives. Travelling is very dangerous, and I cannot get gifts for them because there are no goods in the markets.  

This year, most families are spread all around the Gaza Strip and can’t travel to meet, and staying out after dark is a risky business. On top of this, we are not emotionally prepared to enjoy good times while all our loved ones are gone and all our belongings are destroyed, along with our memories, our livelihoods, and our city.  

Spending Ramadan in mourning, loss, fear and frustration 

Ramadan is a month for worship and compassion. It’s the norm that people prepare the most delicious food in this month and every family has their own recipes. Everyone also races to prepare food to distribute among people in need.

At Islamic Relief, we would distribute food packages to thousands of families every year. We also organised iftars for some of our communities where all our staff volunteered to assist with receiving guests and serving food to their tables. After that, all the staff would gather to clean and spend some good time together.  

This year, we are living Ramadan in mourning, in loss, in fear and frustration. The happiest time of the year is now so sad. We are not able to attend the mosques. Not able to do charity and help each other.

We are not even able to be in our own homes or walk our streets. We do not have Ramadan crescents or lanterns. It is dark.  

Yearning for a Brighter Tomorrow

I can’t compare this year’s Ramadan with anything we have lived through before as we are living the hardest times of our lives. I talk to everyone around me, and they are looking to leave the country in search of a better life.

This Ramadan is so hard and full of desperation. Without a ceasefire, my people are still being killed by bullets, airstrikes, bombing and starvation. Now, we only hope that we will have a ceasefire before the month ends. At least then we could enjoy Eid in some respite. Please, my readers, keep pushing for a ceasefire and an end to this madness.   

*This blog is anonymised to protect the safety and security of our colleague and others mentioned.

Editor’s note: This blog was submitted amid a fast-changing and deepening crisis. The information was correct as of Sunday 17 March 2024. 

The Impact of Food Waste

Food waste has a significant negative social and environmental impact on our planet. According to the United Nations, one-third of all food produced globally is lost or wasted each year. This means that 1.3 billion tons of food, worth nearly $1 trillion, are thrown away annually.

Yet globally, over 800 million people suffer from hunger or malnutrition. And food waste exacerbates this problem by diverting food resources away from those who need them most. 

Food waste also accounts for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions and leads to the waste of water and other natural resources used in food production.

Our teams at Islamic Relief work to support thousands of vulnerable communities worldwide, many of whom are affected by hunger crises and climate-induced disasters.

What Does Islam Say About Food Waste?

In Islam, wasting food is discouraged. Allah (SWT) says in the Quran, “But waste not by excess, for Allah loveth not the wasters.” (Al-Araf, 7:31)

The Prophet (ﷺ) likewise said, “A human being fills no worse vessel than his stomach” (Sunan Ibn Majah) and encouraged the believers to avoid breaking their fast with more than what they can eat.

Therefore, it’s important for us to be conscious of how much food we waste, especially in this month of gratitude and self-reflection. But how do we reduce our day-to-day food waste during Ramadan?

Tips for Reducing Food Waste During Ramadan

Meal Planning

Planning meals in advance can help us to avoid buying too much food. We also save more money, as by planning our meals for the week in advance, we’ll have a shopping list and budget to stick to. Planning also helps to ensure that we eat a variety of healthy and nutritious meals throughout the month.

Shop Wisely

When we do go shopping, it’s important to shop wisely. We can avoid impulse buys by sticking to our shopping list and only buying what we need. Choosing fruits and vegetables that are in season and locally sourced can also reduce the carbon footprint of our food.

Store Food Properly

Proper storage is also key to reducing food waste. By storing food in airtight containers and keeping fruits and vegetables separate, we can extend their shelf life and prevent spoilage. This can save money and reduce the amount of food that we need to throw away.

Serve Smaller Portions

During Ramadan, we may be tempted to overeat, which can lead to food waste. By serving smaller portions and using smaller plates and bowls, we can help to control our portions and reduce food waste. This can also be beneficial for our health and well-being.

Use Leftovers Creatively

Leftovers can be a valuable resource for reducing food waste. We can get creative by turning them into new dishes. For example, leftover rice can be used to make fried rice or rice pudding. This not only helps us waste less food but also adds variety to our meals.

Donate Excess Food

Finally, donating excess food is a great way to avoid wasting food and help those in need. By donating excess food, we can make a positive impact in our communities and support those who are less fortunate.

Islamic Relief and Reducing Food Insecurity

For over 40 years, Islamic Relief has been working to alleviate hunger and reduce food insecurity in some of the world’s poorest and most devastated regions.

These include our emergency relief programs, which provide food packs, as well as access to other basic necessities, to families who are facing conflict, natural disasters or other crises.

In addition to emergency food aid, Islamic Relief also helps provide communities with long-lasting resources that allow them to become self-sufficient. Our teams help communities establish sustainable agriculture practices and become educated and trained in nutrition, health and hygiene, ensuring that the generations after them can also thrive and build bright futures.

The Importance of Reducing Food Waste

In conclusion, Ramadan is indeed a time for spiritual reflection and growth. But it’s also a time to consider our impact on the environment and our communities.

Reducing food waste during Ramadan is not only a way to our gratitude to Allah (SWT) and give to those in need, but it is also a way to contribute to environmental sustainability.

By making conscious choices about food consumption, we can reduce our environmental footprint and make a positive impact on the lives of those most vulnerable, especially those around the world who are struggling with hunger and food insecurity.

Let us strive to make this Ramadan a time of giving, sharing and compassion! May Allah bless us all with His grace and mercy during this beautiful month, ameen!

Ramadan food distribution is a signature program of Islamic Relief. In 2023, Islamic Relief distributed 400 food packs to vulnerable communities in Mithapukur, a sub-district of Rangpur in Bangladesh.

Rangpur is one of the poverty-prone districts in Bangladesh. Within the area, families cannot afford to buy food the whole year round. During Ramadan, this makes fasting difficult, as they often go days without a proper meal is difficult.

To combat this issue, Islamic Relief has ensured that families in Rangpur get enough food throughout Ramadan.

Struggling to Feed Their Family

One of the recipients is Sultana Razia, a 45-year-old mother of 3. Her husband is the family’s breadwinner, but she tries to earn some income to help him out wherever she can.

“I work as a seasonal day labourer, picking potatoes from the land, harvesting rice from the paddy field. Being a Iabourer, I only earn BDT 200 a day. I do sewing at home from which I earn BDT 250 in a week. I give all my earnings to my husband to spend for family purposes. Thus, I contribute to my family.

“I do not have any steady income. I feel bad when I cannot share family expenses. My husband does not earn much, and it is difficult for him to run the whole family with his little income.

“During this difficult period, we cannot provide food to our daughters. Sometimes they starve and go to sleep without food. We eat one or a maximum of two meals a day instead of three meals. My daughters suffer from malnutrition due to lack of food and become physically weak.”

How Islamic Relief Has Helped  

Sultana and her family are regular recipients of aid from Islamic Relief. In 2022, she received a Ramadan food pack and Qurban during Eid al-Adha. Her family also received winter clothes in December 2021 from Islamic Relief’s winterisation program.

In early 2021, she participated in the “Preventing Early Marriage in Bangladesh” project In Mithapukur Upazila, as her second daughter, Rubaya Akhter, was selected as a direct beneficiary of the project. The program gave them BDT 5000 as a grant to increase family income.

The Impact of Ramadan Food Packs

Likewise, in 2023, like many other needy families in her village, Sultana and her family, received a Ramadan food pack from Islamic Relief.

“People in my neighbourhood are poor and the Ramadan pack is a blessing to everyone. The pack gives them comfort and ensures their food security. As such, they sincerely concentrate on their prayers with more devotion.

“This Ramadan food pack is a great help to me. We are a family of 5 members. Before, we hardly managed 3 meals. Now Islamic Relief has ensured our meals in Ramadan. We would be able to break our fast together. We are so much relieved now.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to Islamic Relief from the bottom of my heart. By distributing the Ramadan food pack, Islamic Relief has supported many vulnerable people like us. We are extremely happy to receive these Ramadan food packages.

“I would also like to convey my gratitude to donors, and I will always pray for donors so they continue distributing Ramadan food package in future.”

Our Ramadan program at Islamic Relief ensures food for families in need worldwide. This includes Bangladesh where, within the town of Thakurgaon, many people live in extreme poverty. They struggle to afford food, especially during Ramadan, when they are unable to prepare anything for Suhoor and Iftar, making it harder for them to fast.

Hamida Bewa’s family is one of the rightsholders within this area. She is a 70-year-old who lives with her two adult children, both of whom have disabilities. Her daughter, Omela Khatun, aged 45, cannot speak. Her son, Kolim Uddin, aged 40, is intellectually impaired.

Life in Extreme Poverty in Bangladesh

Hamida’s family struggles to find work. Sometimes, Hamida and her daughter work as domestic help. However, this is nowhere near enough to provide them with a steady income.

“It is so unfortunate that I am dependent on my disabled daughter. Despite her impairment, she works as a domestic help to the neighbours’ house. She washes their dishes and in return, they provide her (with) some food. We share that food and save our lives.

“I become so upset whenever she goes to work. I often cry myself and curse my misfortune. It gives me immense pain and sorrow that I am dependent on my impaired daughter.”

Unable to Afford to Eat

“We are poor. The lives of the poor are always difficult. But my life is even more difficult. Both my son and daughter are disabled. I feel so helpless whenever I think about what their future in my absence would be. Who would take care of them? Who would feed them? It is a terrible test for me. I am a widow and there is no other earning member in my family. I hardly remember when we had three meals in a day.

“We starve most of the time. If we are lucky, we manage two meals. Flood brings distress to everyone. During floods, my daughter cannot go to work and those days we have no choice but to starve.”

“Whatever we are offered from donors, those are our only options. As such we treat ourselves with the food we receive. 

“Sometimes I feel so frustrated remembering our old days. I do not know when I will be able to see my homeland again.” 

Ramadan in Thakurgaon, Bangladesh

“Ramadan is very special. Allah has asked (us) to worship more during this Holy month. But (for) poor people like me who do not have any food for them, it is difficult even to pray. I cannot fast properly because I don’t get enough to eat during sahur.

“We do not get three times meal. It is even difficult for us to collect one meal. We struggle to arrange rice and lentil. We consider ourselves lucky if we manage two meals a day.

“Our regular diet is rice, lentils or vegetables. Sometimes we are blessed when people donate us one or two pieces of fish. We cannot recall when was the last time we had meat. For poor people like us, it is difficult to survive.”

How Islamic Relief Has Helped  

“Islamic Relief is implementing a project titled “SUFOL’’ in our area. I am one of the participants of that project. That’s how I know about Islamic Relief in Bangladesh.

“I was relieved when I received Ramadan food pack from Islamic Relief. I am so thankful. This food pack was a real blessing. I was so worried what we would eat during Ramadan.

“Islamic Relief helped us and made me worry free. They have provided enough food for us. We would be able to fast for a month by eating properly. We would be able to eat food for the whole month. My son will not starve during Ramadan.

“I have nothing more to say except thanking Islamic Relief for their tremendous help. In shaa Allah this year we (will) have no worries for food, and I (will) be able to fast smoothly.”

During Ramadan, the month of fasting, we adjust to a new schedule. As we learn to juggle multiple demands at once, it’s also important to remind ourselves not to neglect the spiritual aspect of Ramadan. And this includes reconnecting with the Qur’an (Quran).

The Significance of the Qur’an (Quran) During Ramadan

Ramadan is known as the month of the Qur’an (Quran). For it was in this blessed month that Allah (SWT) gave us the revelation of this Holy Book.

“It was in the month of Ramadan that the Quran was revealed as guidance for mankind, clear messages giving guidance and distinguishing between right and wrong.“

Al Baqarah, 2:185

Many hadith also report how the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) would emphasise the importance of the Qur’an. How we should nurture our relationship with it. How makes us more beloved to Allah (SWT), earning us protection from the Fire and rewards for this life and the Hereafter.

“Recite the Qur’an, for on the Day of Resurrection it will come as an intercessor for those who recite It.”

Sahih Muslim

“One who is proficient in reciting the Qur’an is associated with the noble, pious (angel) scribes. As for he who stammers when reciting the Qur’an and find it difficult for him, he will be granted a double reward.”

Al-Bukhari and Muslim

So, during this blessed month, how do we reconnect and rekindle our relationship with the Qur’an? Here’s a list of Qur’an-related goals we can all set for ourselves this Ramadan.

6 Qur’an (Quran) Goals to Try

Completing recitation of the whole Qur’an

While this is an obvious Qur’an goal during Ramadan, which carries great reward, we live in an era where many of us find it difficult to find the time to read the Qur’an on a regular basis.

But, it’s important to make time to spend Ramadan at home. With the numerous opportunities for rewards Allah (SWT) gave us this month, we should dedicate at least a little bit each day to reading the Qur’an and increasing our acts of worship.

TIP: Try to read four pages before or after a prayer to complete one Juz a day. That way, you’ll be on track to completing the Qur’an in one month.

Memorise a Surah

Think about some of the Surahs (chapters of the Qur’an) that you’ve always wanted to memorise. They can be short or long, so long if it’s doable for you within the month.

In turn, challenging yourself in this way can be a great exercise in bringing you closer to the words of Allah. You’ll find yourself reciting each verse regularly, gain a deeper understanding of the words, and get excited for prayer knowing you have new surahs to recite!

TIP: If you don’t know what to memorise, Surah Mulk, which is often used for protection, is exactly 30 verses. Memorise a verse each day so you can know the whole surah by heart by the end of the month.

You can also challenge yourself to memorise the first and last ten verses of Surah Al-Kahf, as the Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Whoever recites Surat al-Kahf on Friday, a light will shine for him between this Friday and the next.” (Al Albani).

Read/Listen the Tafsir of the Surahs You Recite/Memorise

Reading or listening to Tafsir (explanations of the Qur’an verses) is a beneficial way of gaining a better understanding of the Qur’an. It also helps you connect with the words you recite during Salah (Salat).

Today, there is a wealth of resources available, from audiobooks to online lectures, you can find. Whatever you do during the day – washing the dishes, cooking Iftar, etc. – listening to Tafsir while doing your tasks is an easy way to incorporate more Qur’an into your life.

Perfect and Immerse Yourself in Surah Al-Fatihah

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) called it “the greatest surah” (Sahih al-Bukhari). It is also the Surah we recite in every Rakat (Rak’a, Rakah) of our Salah. As the Prophet states, “Whoever does not recite Al-Fatihah in his prayer, his prayer is invalid. (Sahih Al-Bukhari).”

As it is the surah that allows us to converse directly with Allah (SWT) numerous times a day, we need to perfect our recitation of it and immerse ourselves in the beauty of its meaning.

Teach Someone a New Surah

Teaching Qur’an for the sake of Allah (SWT) carries great rewards. In a hadith narrated by Uthman ibn `Affan (may Allah be pleased with him), the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

“The best among you [Muslims] are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.”

Sahih al-Bukhari

You will be rewarded every time those you’ve taught recite the verses you helped them learn. As not only are you reciting the words but another person is too – because of you! Whether it be your children, younger siblings or students, it pleases Allah (SWT) to know the effort you’ve made to help another person engage in a beloved act of worship for His sake.

Share Stories from the Qur’an

Sharing Qur’an stories over Iftar or at a gathering is a great way you can connect with the Qur’an and you family or community. You can make this time short and reflective, or set aside more time for some deeper contemplation.

Some of the most popular stories include those of Prophets Musa (AS), Yusuf (AS) and Isa (AS), all of which have important lessons for us to learn. Bonding over the lessons Allah (SWT) teaches us through these stories is something your loved ones will cherish. It will also allow them to establish their own connection with the book of Allah (SWT).

By implementing some of these goals into your daily routine, you will build a deeper connection with the Qur’an, which will live in your heart even after Ramadan. We wish you all the very best in achieving your Qur’an goals this Ramadan!