Madina Masjid Mosque supporting local community in need of food during month of Ramadan

Madina Masjid on Church Road, Rochdale, will be opening its doors on Sunday 19 June 2016 to those in need of food in the local area. This includes the homeless, destitute and those who struggle to put food on the table for themselves or their families.

As a branch of UK Islamic Mission, one of the oldest Muslim charities in the UK, Madina Masjid has become a ‘food hub’ for the charity and distributes food to the needy on a monthly basis.

UK Islamic Mission’s national programme, called iCare, has an aim to encourage their 47 branches and the wider Muslim community to engage with local charities and causes to support the needy that live within our own communities.

Nabeel Tariq, a member of the Madina Masjid and organiser of the food hub, said: “Since launching our monthly food hub we have had an absolutely brilliant response from the Muslim and wider community here in Rochdale.

"As people become more aware, the more donations we receive and the more people we are able to support with food packs.

"During this blessed month of Ramadan, when Muslims are fasting and feeling the effects of hunger, it is a reminder to us that there are many people within our communities that need our support. We are here to answer that call.”

Ramadan is the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar. For 30 days, Muslims fast from the early hours of the morning to sunset. During the long June days, fasts can be as long as 19 hours. The month is about self-reflection, increasing in worship to God and to try and become a better person for the year ahead. Many Muslims increase their charitable giving and donations during the month and work closely with the wider community to share in the celebrations of breaking fast together.

Irman Tariq, who is heading up UKIM’s iCare programmes, said: “Rochdale has taken the lead with the food hub at Madina Masjid and I am hopeful that over the coming months, many of our other branches across the UK will do the same.”

The June food hub will take place on the 19 June 2016 between 11am-1pm. People from the local community are encouraged to bring items such as pasta, sugar, toiletries, tinned foods and more.

For more information people can call a mosque representative on 07821 990810.