RBPP charity Iftar raises £790 for Apasen International

Rochdale Bangladeshi Partnership Project Sixth Annual Charity Iftar

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The Rochdale Bangladeshi Partnership Project (RBPP) held its sixth annual Charity Iftar, a gathering to break the fast in the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, on Tuesday 14 July.

The event each year is open to all sections of the community.

At the gathering food was provided free of charge and guests were asked for a donation for the chosen charity, Apasen International.

The event started with a welcome message from the RBPP oo-ordniator, Dobir Miah, who spoke about the work of RBPP and this year’s choice of charity. He introduced Muzahid Khan, who is a fundraiser for the charity.

Mr Khan showed a presentation and a documentary of the work of Apasen International.

Dr Musharraf Hussain (vice-chairman of RBPP) talked about his experience from a recent visit to one of the charity’s projects.

Apasen International focuses on improving the lives of vulnerable people with learning disabilities, autism, and other special needs in urban and rural communities in Bangladesh. It works with local partners and stakeholders to provide a range of services in health, education, and poverty reduction for children and adults with disabilities and reduce levels of discrimination and stigma.

Food was served at sunset followed by prayers and networking opportunities were available at the end.

Mr Miah said: "We are really pleased to have members of all faiths and no faith as well as people of all backgrounds and profession join us.

“We are equally pleased to have received donations made at the charity Iftar, the amount raised on the night will mean a charity with a very good track record will be able to support more people with disabilities.

“On behalf of the RBPP I would like to thank all those who took part in the charity Iftar.

"We hope that our contributions will go a long way to help those who are in need of specialist help in Bangladesh.

“I would like to thank the CommuniTea Room for their great food and Wardleworth Community Centre for providing the venue.

"We have raised a fantastic amount (£790) and we have also had promises of more money from individuals which equates to nearly a £1,000.”

Penelope Mawson, representing Apasen, added: “We are so delighted with the help and support given to us by the Rochdale Bangladeshi Partnership Project, they truly are amazing in the way they raise funds for charities and we commend them for their work and dedication to serving humanity.

"Special thanks to Dobir Miah who found time to do this so soon after the birth of his son. Real dedication to Apasen International and good works”

The RBPP work to exchange and foster mutual understanding between British Bangladeshis and other communities.