Fasting Muslims donate food in masses to those in need in Leicester

Over 1000 crates of food (3 tonnes), in the form of pasta, tinned food, cereal, sugar, flour and oil were donated by Leicesters Muslims yesterday to FareShare to be distributed to families in need throughout Leicester, in an initiative led by The Islamic Society of Britain (ISB) called Your neighbour needs you! 5.8 million people in the UK live in deep poverty, making it harder for them to afford everyday essentials like food (www.fareshare.org.uk). During the month of Ramadan when Muslims fast from Dawn until sunset everyday, they are encouraged to think of those less well off than themselves, and provide food and care where they can. With this in mind the Islamic Society of Britain partnered with the Federation of Muslim Organisations (FMO), to encourage Muslims all over the city to donate food items to those most in need, regardless of their faith or belief. The Islamic Society of Britains (ISB) EatnMeet project, already runs several programmes which aim to support the homeless in Leicester. This includes Saturday Stop-by where they work alongside Christian friends from St James the Greater Church, to provide hot food, hot and cold refreshments and recreational activities every Saturday 11am 2pm. This recent initiative is to help families (often including the elderly and children), most affected by the difficult financial times and living in poverty. Salma Ravat from ISB said: The response we have had has been overwhelming, this really is the spirit of what Ramadan is all about, helping those in our community who are in need. Our partnership with the FMO meant that this campaign allowed us to create greater awareness of this important area of work and remind Muslims of their responsibility to their neighbours, regardless of their colour or faith. We hope that we can continue this partnership in future years.
Notes for Editors: 1. The Islamic Society of Britain (ISB) is a community based charity (no: 1145319) and one of the first organisations that sought to evolve a uniquely British flavour to Islam www.isb.org.uk. 2. FareShare, (charity no: 1100051), was recognised as Britains Most Admired Charity 2010. See: www.fareshare.org.uk 3. Media enquires: Salma Ravat 07989 698483 eatnmeet@isb.org .uk 4. Food collected will be given to FareShare to distribute to food banks and those most in need throughout Leicester 5. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eatandmeetleicester